Wigmore Wanderers FC 3 vs 1 Rochester Eagles Reserves

In a thrilling cup encounter at Beechings Way on 15 December 2024, Wigmore Wanderers FC secured a convincing 3-1 victory against Rochester Eagles Reserves. The match kicked off at 10:30 am and saw the Wanderers dominate proceedings, showcasing their attacking prowess and tactical discipline throughout the 90 minutes.

Wigmore Wanderers adopted a 3-4-3 formation, which allowed them to utilise their attacking talents effectively while maintaining a solid defensive structure. Zach Henderson took his place in goal, shielded by a back three consisting of Harley Tutt in the centre, flanked by George Alp on the right and Harvey Edkins on the left. The midfield was anchored by Dan Bailey and Charlie Ivey 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 wide forwards, supporting the central striker, James Lundie.

The substitutes for the match included Alex Toms, Ben Brewster, Ben Lucy, and Ben Hetterley, who would later play crucial roles as the game unfolded.

The opening goal came in the 29th minute when Harry Smith converted a penalty, awarded after Ronnie Porter was fouled in the box. Smith confidently struck the ball with his left foot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and giving the Wanderers a 1-0 lead. Just a minute later, the Wanderers doubled their advantage through James Lundie, who unleashed a stunning long-range strike from outside the box with his left foot, leaving the Eagles' keeper with no chance.

As the first half drew to a close, tensions flared when Ronnie Porter received a yellow card for a bad tackle in the 41st minute, a decision that added to the intensity of the match. The half-time whistle blew shortly after, with Wigmore Wanderers leading 2-0.

The second half saw tactical changes as Alex Toms replaced George Alp and Ben Brewster came on for Ronnie Porter, both substitutions aimed at maintaining the Wanderers' momentum. However, the Eagles were not ready to concede defeat easily. In the 91st minute, they managed to pull a goal back, igniting hopes of a comeback.

Despite the Eagles' resurgence, the Wanderers responded emphatically. In the dying moments of the match, Ronnie Porter, who had returned to the pitch after being substituted off, scored a third goal for Wigmore Wanderers in the 92nd minute. Assisted by Ben Hetterley, Porter flicked the ball into the net with his right foot from inside the box, sealing a comprehensive victory for his side.

The match concluded with a final score of 3-1 in favour of Wigmore Wanderers, who demonstrated their attacking flair and resilience. Dan Bailey's performance in midfield was particularly noteworthy, earning him the accolade of Player of the Match. The Wanderers will take great confidence from this victory as they progress in the cup competition.