Wigmore Wanderers FC travelled to face Thamesview FC Thamesview in a tense cup away match at Thamesview’s ground on 5 October 2025, kicking off at 10:30am. The 90 minutes of regular time ended in a 2-2 stalemate, with Wigmore ultimately prevailing 5-4 in a nail-biting penalty shootout. The match was a thrilling encounter marked by tactical substitutions and moments of individual brilliance.
Wigmore Wanderers lined up in a classic 4-3-3 formation, deploying Zach Henderson in goal to marshal the defence. The back four consisted of Ben Brewster at right back, Alex Toms and Finley Leah as central defenders, and George Tutt on the left flank. The midfield trio featured Harley Tutt on the right, Charlie Ivey centrally, and Liam Apps on the left, tasked with both defensive duties and supporting the attack. Upfront, the front three comprised Jack Downey on the right wing, James Lundie leading the line as striker, and Jason Yuen operating on the left wing. This setup was designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking width and creativity.
On the bench, Wigmore had Leon Vidler, Kai Wong, Tom Spearink, Harry Smith, and Harvey Edkins ready to influence the game as required.
The match began with Thamesview FC taking an early lead in the 17th minute, scoring from inside the box to put the hosts ahead. This early setback forced Wigmore to rethink their approach. Just three minutes later, at the 20-minute mark, Wigmore made their first substitution, bringing on Leon Vidler for Charlie Ivey in a tactical switch aimed at reshaping the midfield dynamics.
As the first half progressed, Wigmore faced further challenges. At 35 minutes, two substitutions occurred simultaneously: Kai Wong replaced striker James Lundie in a tactical move to refresh the attack, while Tom Spearink came on for the injured right back Ben Brewster. However, the changes were not yet complete, as just three minutes later, at 38 minutes, Charlie Ivey returned to the pitch, replacing Leon Vidler due to injury concerns.
Approaching half time, Wigmore made another tactical adjustment with Harry Smith coming on for left back George Tutt at the 45th minute mark. This change aimed to bolster the defensive line and provide fresh legs for the second half. The teams went into the break with Thamesview holding their slender lead.
The second half began with Wigmore showing renewed intent. Within two minutes of the restart, Liam Apps unleashed a stunning long-range strike from outside the box with his right foot, levelling the score at 1-1 and reigniting Wigmore’s hopes.
Wigmore’s momentum continued, and in the 63rd minute, Jack Downey scored from inside the box after a precise right-footed finish, expertly set up by a cross from Jason Yuen on the right wing. This goal put Wigmore ahead 2-1 and demonstrated the effectiveness of their wide attacking play.
The tactical substitutions continued as the match wore on. At 68 minutes, James Lundie returned to the field, replacing Charlie Ivey in midfield to add more attacking impetus. Shortly after, at 70 minutes, Harvey Edkins came on for Tom Spearink, another tactical change aimed at maintaining energy and control in defence.
Despite Wigmore’s lead, Thamesview fought back and equalised in the 83rd minute with a close-range finish inside the box using their right foot. This goal set up a tense finale as the match headed towards full time with the score locked at 2-2.
With no further goals in added time, the contest proceeded to a penalty shootout. Wigmore Wanderers held their nerve to edge Thamesview 5-4, securing their progression in the cup.
Throughout the match, Zach Henderson was outstanding between the sticks, making crucial saves that kept Wigmore in the contest and earning him the player of the match accolade. The referee’s performance was also commendable, maintaining control in a tightly contested fixture.
In a game defined by tactical flexibility, resilience, and moments of individual quality, Wigmore Wanderers FC emerged victorious after a dramatic penalty shootout, setting up further excitement in their cup campaign.
