In a commanding performance, Wedgwood FC secured a decisive 3-0 victory against Robin Hood Rookery in their cup away match held at Birchenwood Playing Fields on 16 March 2025. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, and the result sees Wedgwood advance in the competition with a display of attacking prowess and solid defending.
Wedgwood FC lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, designed to provide both defensive stability and attacking flair. Adam Dunn took his place in goal, while the back four consisted of Jay Blood and Alex Bayley as right and left defenders, respectively, with Jordan Coleman and Ricci Edwards forming the central defensive partnership. In midfield, George Barlow and Henri Royals operated as central midfielders, tasked with controlling the tempo and linking play. The attacking trio featured Nick Bennet on the right, Ashley Ibbs on the left, and Craig Cookson in the central attacking role, with Owen Bott leading the line as the striker. The substitutes for the match included Brendon Whitfield, Archie Wemyss, and Ben Deakin.
The match began with an early flourish from Wedgwood, as Craig Cookson made a long pass just a minute in, setting the tone for an aggressive start. Within moments, Cookson himself had a shot saved, showcasing his intent to make an impact. Ashley Ibbs followed suit with a key pass that created a chance, but Owen Bott's attempt was also saved, indicating that Wedgwood was firmly in control of the early exchanges.
As the first half progressed, Wedgwood continued to press, with Jay Blood delivering another long pass that created a chance, although Nick Bennet's effort went wide. Bott had another opportunity saved, while Bennet struck the post, a near miss that highlighted Wedgwood's attacking threat. Despite several attempts, including efforts from Ashley Ibbs and George Barlow that went wide, the first half ended without a goal, but Wedgwood's dominance was evident.
The second half commenced with a yellow card shown to Jay Blood for unsporting behaviour, a minor setback that did not deter Wedgwood's momentum. Just seven minutes in, Owen Bott broke the deadlock, scoring from inside the box after a short pass from Henri Royals. This goal ignited the Wedgwood supporters and set the stage for further exploits.
Bott was not finished yet; he doubled his tally shortly after, again assisted by Royals, showcasing a clinical edge that left Robin Hood Rookery reeling. Bott's third goal of the match came just a minute later, solidifying his status as the standout player of the day.
As the match approached its conclusion, Wedgwood made tactical substitutions, bringing on Brendon Whitfield for Alex Bayley and Archie Wemyss for the injured Bott, alongside Ben Deakin replacing Jordan Coleman. Despite the changes, Wedgwood maintained their composure and continued to threaten, with Cookson making a long pass in injury time that created yet another chance.
Ultimately, Wedgwood FC's performance was a testament to their teamwork and determination, as they secured a well-deserved victory against Robin Hood Rookery. George Barlow's influential play earned him the accolade of Player of the Match, reflecting the collective effort that propelled Wedgwood into the next round of the cup.
