In a resounding display of attacking football, Wigmore Wanderers FC triumphed over Woodcoombe with an emphatic scoreline of 6-1 in their cup away match at Murston Recreation Ground on 27 October 2024. The match kicked off at 10:30 am, and the Wanderers showcased their prowess throughout the 90 minutes, leaving no doubt about their intentions in the competition.
Wigmore Wanderers lined up in a 3-4-3 formation, designed to maximise their attacking potential while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Will Margetts took his position in goal, with George Alp, Alex Toms, and Harvey Edkins forming a robust back three. The midfield was anchored by Dan Bailey and Charlie Ivey in central roles, flanked by Tom Spearink on the right and Harry Smith on the left. Up front, Ronnie Porter and George Hennessy supported striker James Lundie, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing off chances.
The substitutes for Wigmore Wanderers included Jack Downey, Ben Lucy, Ben Brewster, Harry James, and Ben Hetterley, providing tactical options for the manager as the match progressed.
The action began early, with James Lundie opening the scoring just two minutes into the match. A long pass from Alex Toms found Lundie inside the box, and he made no mistake, firing home with his right foot. However, Woodcoombe responded almost immediately, equalising with a stunning long-range strike, also in the second minute, leaving Margetts with little chance to react.
Despite the setback, Wigmore Wanderers regained their composure and began to dominate possession. In the 19th minute, George Hennessy restored the lead for the Wanderers, converting a well-placed long pass from Ronnie Porter inside the box with his right foot. The Wanderers continued to press, and their efforts paid off again in the 37th minute when Tom Spearink scored from close range, assisted by another long pass from Hennessy.
As the first half drew to a close, the Wanderers held a comfortable 3-1 lead, showcasing their attacking flair and tactical discipline. The referee signalled half-time at the 45-minute mark, allowing both teams a brief respite.
The second half commenced with the Wanderers eager to extend their lead. Just after the break, in the 46th minute, Dan Bailey scored the fourth goal for Wigmore, finishing off a cross from Tom Spearink with his right foot inside the box. This goal set the tone for the remainder of the match, as the Wanderers continued to apply pressure on Woodcoombe's defence.
In the 58th minute, tactical changes began as Jack Downey replaced James Lundie, aiming to inject fresh energy into the attack. The Wanderers were relentless, and in the 65th minute, Ronnie Porter added to the tally, scoring with his left foot after being set up by Hennessy with another precise long pass.
Further substitutions followed as Ben Lucy came on for Dan Bailey in the 67th minute, Ben Brewster replaced Harry Smith in the 69th minute, and Harry James took over from George Alp in the 72nd minute. The changes were strategic, ensuring that the Wanderers maintained their momentum.
As the match neared its conclusion, Ben Hetterley replaced Tom Spearink in the 76th minute, while Ronnie Porter made way for Harry Smith in the 84th minute, allowing the Wanderers to manage their lead effectively.
In the dying moments of the match, Harry Smith capped off a stellar performance by scoring a penalty in the 92nd minute, following a foul in the box. Hennessy provided the assist, and Smith calmly slotted the ball home with his left foot, sealing a comprehensive 6-1 victory for Wigmore Wanderers.
This impressive win not only highlighted the Wanderers' attacking capabilities but also showcased their depth in squad and tactical flexibility. With Charlie Ivey earning the Player of the Match accolade for his influential performance, the Wanderers will look to carry this momentum into their next fixtures as they aim for cup glory.
