Stroud United Res faced Taveners Reserves in a friendly match at Stratford Court, Stroud, on 9th August 2025, kicking off at 1:00pm. The home side emerged victorious with a scoreline of 2-1, showcasing their attacking prowess and solid defensive work throughout the match.
Stroud United lined up in a 4-1-2-3 formation, designed to provide a strong defensive base while allowing for fluid attacking transitions. Owen Bennett took his place in goal, shielded by a back four consisting of Vinny Rees on the right, Chay Jones and Gary Cook in central defence, and Jason Wright on the left. Luke Bartlett operated as a central midfielder, with Tom Ticehirst and Jamie Marriott positioned as right and left attacking midfielders respectively. Up front, Alex Castle and Tom Florek flanked striker Rio Kerr, who was tasked with leading the line and finishing chances.
The substitutes for Stroud United included Josh Fletcher, Max Dyer, Oscar Fairfax, and Louis De Felice, who would later play pivotal roles in the match.
The first significant action came in the 10th minute when Vinny Rees made a crucial defensive header, demonstrating his commitment to keeping the opposition at bay. Stroud United began to assert their dominance, with Alex Castle attempting a shot in the 16th minute that went wide of the target. Shortly after, in the 21st minute, Rio Kerr's effort sailed high, but the pressure was mounting on Taveners' defence.
The breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute when Chay Jones scored with a well-placed header, assisted by Tom Ticehirst's precise delivery. This goal ignited the home crowd and set the tone for the remainder of the half. Just a minute later, Ticehirst himself had another attempt, but his shot went high, indicating Stroud's attacking intent.
In the 27th minute, Tom Florek's effort was saved, but the home side continued to press. Owen Bennett showcased his goalkeeping skills in the 32nd minute by confidently catching a cross, ensuring that Stroud maintained their lead. The 34th minute saw Rio Kerr extend the advantage to 2-0, scoring with a header after a well-timed assist from Vinny Rees.
As the first half drew to a close, Stroud United remained in control, with attempts from Tom Florek and Tom Ticehirst both saved or going high. Chay Jones made a vital interception in the 41st minute, further solidifying the home side's defensive efforts. The half concluded with Stroud leading 2-0, leaving Taveners with much to ponder.
The second half began with two substitutions for Stroud United, bringing on Max Dyer for Tom Florek and Josh Fletcher for Luke Bartlett. Just two minutes into the half, Fletcher had a chance that was saved, signalling Stroud's intent to continue their offensive play. However, Taveners began to find their rhythm, with Alex Castle's attempt in the 52nd minute also going wide.
Chay Jones continued to impress defensively, making another header in the 58th minute. Yet, in the 69th minute, Taveners pulled one back with a goal, injecting new life into the match and reducing Stroud's lead to 2-1.
Stroud responded with further substitutions, bringing Tom Florek back on for Vinny Rees and Rio Kerr for Chay Jones, as they sought to regain control. Gary Cook was instrumental in defence, making a header and a tackle in quick succession in the 80th minute, showcasing the team's resilience.
As the match approached its conclusion, Tom Florek had another shot saved in the 82nd minute, while Josh Fletcher's attempt in the 85th minute went wide. Louis De Felice replaced Jamie Marriott in the 86th minute, adding fresh legs to the midfield.
In the dying moments of the match, Tom Florek had two more attempts, both of which went high, but Stroud United held firm defensively, with Gary Cook making a final header in the 91st minute to secure the victory.
Vinny Rees was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance, contributing significantly to both defence and attack. Stroud United Res celebrated a well-deserved win, demonstrating their potential as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
