In an exhilarating friendly match held at Chicken Range on 31 August 2025, Hedgerley FC edged out Chicken Ranch United with a narrow 4-3 victory. The match, which kicked off at 10:30 am, showcased a flurry of goals and tactical battles that kept spectators on the edge of their seats throughout the 90 minutes.
Hedgerley FC adopted a 4-5-1 formation, which allowed them to dominate the midfield while maintaining a solid defensive line. Chris Randall took his position in goal, shielded by a back four comprising John Lobo on the right, Adam Butler and Ryan Gibbs in central defence, and Bradley Oxbrow on the left. The midfield featured Mason Parr-Mckivett on the right, Oliver Cottrill, Conor Henry, and Jack Butler centrally, with Josh McKee operating on the left. Up front, Andrew Bailey was the lone striker, expected to lead the line and convert chances into goals. The substitutes for the match included Lewis Scott.
The opening exchanges were lively, with both teams probing for weaknesses. It was Hedgerley FC who struck first in the 12th minute when Josh McKee found the back of the net, courtesy of a well-timed assist from Conor Henry. The early goal set the tone for a competitive encounter.
However, Chicken Ranch United responded swiftly, equalising in the 27th minute. The home side's goal ignited their confidence, but Hedgerley FC maintained composure, making a tactical substitution as Lewis Scott replaced Ryan Gibbs shortly after the equaliser. This change aimed to bolster the midfield and regain control of the game.
Hedgerley FC regained the lead in the 36th minute when Josh McKee scored his second goal of the match, this time assisted by Andrew Bailey. The visitors went into half-time with a 2-1 advantage, leaving Chicken Ranch United to regroup and strategise during the break.
The second half commenced with Hedgerley FC looking to extend their lead. They did just that in the 58th minute when Andrew Bailey scored, assisted by the ever-influential Josh McKee, making it 3-1. This goal seemed to put Hedgerley in a commanding position, but Chicken Ranch United was not done yet.
In the 70th minute, the home side pulled one back, reigniting their hopes of a comeback. The tension in the match escalated as both teams pushed for more goals. Hedgerley FC responded with another goal in the 76th minute, as Andrew Bailey netted his second, with Conor Henry providing the assist. This goal restored Hedgerley’s two-goal cushion at 4-2.
Yet again, Chicken Ranch United demonstrated their resilience, scoring another goal in the 80th minute to make it 4-3, setting up a frantic finish to the match. As the clock ticked down, both teams battled fiercely, but Hedgerley FC held firm in defence.
In the 82nd minute, Hedgerley made another substitution, bringing Mason Parr-Mckivett back onto the pitch in place of John Lobo, looking to shore up their defensive efforts as they sought to maintain their slender lead.
The match concluded with Hedgerley FC emerging victorious, having showcased their attacking prowess and defensive resilience against a spirited Chicken Ranch United side. The friendly encounter served as a valuable exercise for both teams as they prepare for their upcoming fixtures, with Hedgerley FC taking home a hard-fought win.
