Wedgwood FC secured a commanding 4-1 victory against Robin Hood Rookery in a league match held at Birchenwood Playing Fields on 27 October 2024. The match kicked off at 10:30 am and showcased a dominant performance from the visitors, who displayed tactical prowess and clinical finishing throughout the encounter.
Wedgwood FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring Chris Dyer in goal, supported by a back four of Brandyn Williams and Alex Bayley as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Ricci Edwards and Jordan Coleman occupying the central defensive roles. The midfield was anchored by George Barlow and Nick Fricker, while the attacking trio comprised Jay Blood on the right, Nick Bennet on the left, and Craig Cookson in the central attacking midfield position. Owen Bott led the line as the striker, expected to exploit any defensive lapses from the opposition. The substitutes for the match included Ashley Ibbs, Callum Sutton, and Henri Royals.
The match began with an early attempt from Craig Cookson, whose shot in the third minute was saved, signalling Wedgwood's attacking intent. However, just a minute later, Brandyn Williams committed a late tackle, which did not result in a penalty but highlighted the physical nature of the contest. Cookson continued to be a key figure, making a long pass in the ninth minute that created a chance, demonstrating his vision and playmaking ability.
As the first half progressed, Wedgwood's defence was tested, with Brandyn Williams making a crucial block in the tenth minute to prevent a chance for Robin Hood Rookery. Despite their efforts, the hosts took the lead in the 16th minute, scoring the first goal of the match. This setback did not deter Wedgwood, who responded with determination.
Owen Bott equalised in the 23rd minute, finishing a well-placed long pass from Cookson with his right foot, showcasing his poaching instincts. The momentum shifted further in Wedgwood's favour when Bott struck again in the 35th minute, this time converting another assist from Cookson, this time with his left foot, putting the visitors ahead 2-1.
Defensively, Wedgwood remained resolute, with Alex Bayley and Jordan Coleman making important clearances as the first half drew to a close. The whistle blew for half-time with Wedgwood leading 2-1, a scoreline that reflected their growing dominance.
The second half began with Cookson continuing to threaten, but his attempt in the 47th minute was saved. A flurry of substitutions followed, with Ashley Ibbs, Callum Sutton, and Henri Royals entering the fray, injecting fresh energy into the team. Just moments later, Bott completed his hat-trick, scoring his third goal of the match in the 47th minute with a cheaky left-footed finish after going around the keeper, assisted by Cookson's clever flick.
Wedgwood maintained control, with Cookson hitting the post in the 51st minute, narrowly missing out on adding to his tally. The visitors continued to press, but as the match approached its final stages, Jay Blood's attempt in the 84th minute went wide, a missed opportunity to further extend the lead.
In the dying moments of the match, Chris Dyer showcased his goalkeeping skills with a full-stretch save in the 92nd minute, ensuring the score remained intact. Finally, in the 94th minute, Cookson capped off a stellar performance by scoring Wedgwood's fourth goal, converting a short pass from Ashley Ibbs with his right foot, sealing a comprehensive victory.
The match concluded with Wedgwood FC emerging victorious, demonstrating their attacking prowess and solid defensive organisation, while Robin Hood Rookery struggled to cope with the relentless pressure from their opponents.
