Chalford Res 2 vs 1 Stroud United Firsts

Stroud United Firsts travelled to Chalford S&sc, Highfield Way, Chalford #1 on 18 October 2025 for a 2:30pm kick-off in a league away fixture against Chalford Res. The match ended in a 2-1 defeat for Stroud United after a hard-fought 90 minutes.

Stroud United lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, deploying a back four consisting of Jamie Snell at right back, Curt Florek and Malique Cooke as central defenders, and Josh Fisher at left back. In midfield, Jake Gardiner and Jack Liddacot provided the double pivot, with Nathan Green playing just ahead as an attacking midfielder. The front three featured Jordan Measures on the right wing, Marshall Stokes leading the line as the striker, and Elliot James on the left flank. Adam Masson took his place between the sticks. The substitutes available were Harvey Masson and Ollie Osbourne-Shill.

From the outset, Stroud United showed intent, with Jack Liddacot and Elliot James both testing the Chalford Res goalkeeper within the opening minute, only to be denied. Adam Masson was alert early on, comfortably catching a cross in the fourth minute. The defensive unit was busy, with Malique Cooke winning a vital header in the fifth minute and Curt Florek making key interceptions and headed clearances throughout the opening quarter of the match.

Stroud’s attacking efforts continued, though Jordan Measures’ attempt in the sixth minute drifted wide, and Nathan Green’s shot at the 12th minute also missed the target. Defensively, Curt Florek was a rock, repeatedly clearing danger with headers and interceptions, while Jamie Snell and Josh Fisher contributed crucial interceptions and blocks to keep Chalford Res at bay.

Despite Stroud’s resilience, Chalford Res broke the deadlock in the 40th minute, capitalising on a defensive lapse to score the opening goal. Stroud’s defenders and goalkeeper remained vigilant, with Jamie Snell intercepting a threat immediately after the goal and Adam Masson pulling off a sharp save at the 43rd minute to deny a close-range effort.

At half-time, the score stood at 1-0 to Chalford Res. Stroud United made a change at the break, with Harvey Masson replacing Jack Liddacot to inject fresh energy into midfield. The second half saw continued defensive solidity from Jamie Snell and Josh Fisher, who cleared danger in quick succession, while Malique Cooke maintained his commanding presence with several headers and interceptions.

However, injury forced another substitution in the 52nd minute, with Ollie Osbourne-Shill coming on for Jamie Snell. Curt Florek also had to be replaced temporarily due to injury, with Jack Liddacot returning to the field at the 59th minute mark. Adam Masson remained a key figure in goal, making several important saves including a point-blank reaction stop in the 73rd minute.

Stroud United’s persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when substitute Harvey Masson found the net, expertly finishing a chance created by Jordan Measures’ assist. The equaliser sparked hope of a comeback, but Chalford Res responded swiftly, regaining the lead just four minutes later in the 86th minute.

In the closing stages, Stroud United threw everything forward in search of an equaliser, but Chalford Res’s defence held firm. Jake Gardiner made a crucial interception in the 87th minute to deny a late threat. Despite their efforts, Stroud United were unable to find a second goal, and the match concluded 2-1 in favour of Chalford Res.

Harvey Masson was named player of the match for his impactful performance, particularly his decisive goal that briefly levelled the scores. Stroud United will look to build on their spirited display as they prepare for their next league encounter.