Wigmore Wanderers FC welcomed Rochester Eagles First to Beechings Way on 5th January 2025 for a gripping cup encounter that ended in a 3-2 victory for the home side. The match, which kicked off at 10:30 am, showcased a blend of tactical prowess and individual brilliance, with both teams displaying their determination to progress in the competition.
Wigmore Wanderers lined up in a 3-4-3 formation, designed to maximise their attacking potential while maintaining defensive solidity. Zach Henderson took his place in goal, shielded by a back three consisting of Harley Tutt in the centre, flanked by Alex Toms on the right and Harvey Edkins on the left. The midfield was anchored by Dan Bailey and Liam Apps in central roles, with Jack Downey and Harry Smith providing width as right and left midfielders, respectively. Up front, Ronnie Porter and George Hennessy operated as right and left forwards, supporting the central striker, James Lundie, in a bid to unsettle the Eagles' defence.
The substitutes for Wigmore included Ben Lucy, Ben Hetterley, George Alp, and Ben Brewster, who would be called upon as the match unfolded, depending on the tactical needs of the game.
The match began with a flurry of activity, and it was George Hennessy who opened the scoring for Wigmore Wanderers in the 18th minute. Hennessy capitalised on a precise cross from Jack Downey, slotting the ball home with his right foot from inside the box, sending the home fans into raptures. However, Rochester Eagles responded with tenacity, equalising in the 36th minute through a well-placed shot from inside the box, executed with precision by one of their forwards.
As the first half drew to a close, the Eagles struck again, taking a 2-1 lead just before the break in the 43rd minute. Another right-footed effort from close range left Henderson with little chance, and the Wanderers found themselves trailing at half-time.
In a tactical reshuffle, Wigmore made three substitutions at the start of the second half, bringing on Ben Hetterley and George Alp for James Lundie and Harvey Edkins, respectively. The changes aimed to inject fresh energy into the side as they sought to claw back the deficit.
The second half saw the Wanderers come out with renewed vigour. In the 54th minute, Ben Brewster entered the fray, replacing Harry Smith, as Wigmore continued to press for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off in the 75th minute when Jack Downey, having already provided an assist, scored a stunning goal from outside the area, courtesy of a long pass from Ronnie Porter. The match was now level at 2-2, and the momentum had shifted firmly in favour of the home side.
With the clock ticking down, Wigmore made further tactical adjustments, bringing Dan Bailey back on for Ben Lucy in the 76th minute, while also substituting Ronnie Porter for Harvey Edkins. The changes were pivotal as they looked to maintain their attacking threat.
In a dramatic finale, James Lundie emerged as the hero for Wigmore Wanderers, scoring the decisive goal in the 88th minute. A deft left-footed finish from inside the box, following a short pass from Ben Brewster, sent the home crowd into a frenzy as they celebrated a crucial lead.
As the match entered injury time, tensions rose, and Harley Tutt received a yellow card in the 93rd minute for a foul, adding to the drama of the closing moments. However, the Wanderers held on to secure a memorable 3-2 victory, ensuring their place in the next round of the cup.
The match showcased not only the skill and determination of the players but also the tactical acumen of the coaching staff, with Ronnie Porter earning the accolade of Player of the Match for his influential performance.
