Stroud United Firsts welcomed Tetbury Town to Stratford Court on 23 August 2025 for a league encounter that kicked off at 2:30pm. Despite a spirited performance, Stroud United succumbed to a 2-1 defeat, leaving them to ponder missed opportunities as they seek to find their rhythm in the league.
Stroud United lined up in a 4-2-1-3 formation, designed to provide a solid defensive base while allowing for attacking flair. Adam Masson took his place between the posts, shielded by a back four comprising Curt Florek and Josh Fisher as the right and left defenders, respectively, with Jamie Snell and Malique Cooke occupying the central defensive roles. In midfield, Josh George and Jake Gardiner operated as central midfielders, tasked with both breaking up opposition play and supporting the attack. Nathan Green played as the attacking midfielder, looking to link up with the front three of Jordan Measures on the right, Marshall Stokes as the central striker, and Harvey Masson on the left.
The substitutes for Stroud United included Ben Abbott, Dean Murray, and Vinny Rees, who would be called upon as the match unfolded.
The first half saw Stroud take the lead just before the break, with Jordan Measures finding the net in the 44th minute. It was a well-timed strike that gave the home side a crucial advantage heading into half-time. However, the joy was short-lived as the second half brought a series of challenges for Stroud United.
Immediately after the interval, Ben Abbott was introduced, replacing Jamie Snell. Unfortunately for Abbott, after making a clear foul, on the 53rd minute, he was attacked by a out of control Tetbury striker. Who threw Abbott to the floor and landed several punches to the head. The referee had deemed that Abbott’s initial foul provoked the attack. And sent both players off. Leaving both sides to navigate the remainder of the match with ten men. This setback proved pivotal as Tetbury seized the opportunity to capitalise on Stroud's disrupted formation
As the match progressed, Stroud struggled to maintain their composure, and in the 72nd minute, Tetbury equalised. The pressure mounted on Stroud United, and they were forced to make tactical changes, bringing on Dean Murray for Harvey Masson in the 75th minute, followed by a substitution of Harvey Masson, coming back on for Nathan Green in the 80th minute, as they sought to regain control.
In a final attempt to bolster their defence, Vinny Rees was brought on for Curt Florek in the 85th minute, but despite their efforts, Stroud United's defence faltered again, conceding a second goal to Tetbury Town in the 87th minute. The late strike sealed Stroud United's fate, leaving them with little time to respond.
Josh George was recognised for his commendable performance throughout the match, showcasing his ability to influence play from midfield despite the team's overall disappointment. As the final whistle blew, Stroud United were left to reflect on a match that slipped away, with lessons to be learned as they prepare for their next challenge in the league.
