24/25 Results

22nd February 2025

Whiteley Wanderers welcomed a confident Hayling United side, unbeaten in February and sitting in seventh place before kick-off. It was a tentative start for Whiteley, taking a few minutes to find their rhythm as Hayling launched the first attacks of the match. The defence held firm, with Vickery making some solid early saves to keep the visitors at bay.

Dylan sparked Whiteley’s first attack, driving down the right and drawing a foul. The resulting free-kick led to a corner, though it came to nothing. The midfield battle was fierce, forcing both teams into long balls that failed to create real danger. Harrison’s determination in winning back possession set up a link-up between Rory and Kerby, with Tommy delivering a dangerous ball across the box, just out of reach for Harrison.

As Whiteley grew into the game, Bell drove forward and slipped Rory through, only for his shot to be saved. Moments later, Charlie surged from deep, firing a shot that was again stopped by the keeper. Whiteley’s persistence finally paid off when Bell won possession and played in Kerby, who slotted home to give the hosts a deserved lead.

With momentum now on their side, Whiteley pressed high, frustrating Hayling into fouls. Bell’s free-kick found its way to Kerby, whose strike was saved, but the second goal soon followed. A long ball saw the Hayling keeper come off his line, but his clearance fell kindly to Kerby, who showed great composure to lob the stranded goalkeeper and double Whiteley’s advantage.

Hayling responded with a late first-half push, forcing crucial blocks from Dylan and Josh, while Vickery produced a series of brave saves to preserve the lead. Whiteley nearly extended their lead just before the break, with Rory’s skill sending Tom through, but from an unfamiliar attacking position, he was unable to get a shot away. The defence held firm, ensuring a clean sheet at half-time.

Half-Time: Whiteley Wanderers 2 – 0 Hayling United

Determined to turn things around, Hayling made changes at the break and started the second half with intent, firing an early shot into the side netting. Whiteley’s defence remained resolute, forcing Hayling into speculative long-range efforts that failed to trouble Vickery. The game turned increasingly physical, with free-kicks awarded to both sides.

Whiteley remained patient in their build-up but struggled to convert their chances. Then, Hayling found a breakthrough. A strong run down the left saw them weave through multiple challenges before slotting the ball past Vickery to halve the deficit.

With their tails up, Hayling continued to push, though many of their efforts went high and wide. The intensity remained high, and they found an equaliser after a quick counter-attack, sending the ball into the Whiteley box where it was bundled into the net.

Whiteley needed a response, and substitute Ousman provided it. Linking up with Lyle and Rory, he latched onto a return ball and rifled a powerful strike beyond the keeper to restore the lead at 3-2.

However, the advantage was short-lived. Just a minute later, Hayling won a free-kick, sending the ball into the box where a well-placed header looped over Vickery to level the game once more. Hayling, now full of belief, capitalised on the momentum. A long throw reached the edge of the box, where their forward twisted, turned, and found the bottom corner to give them the lead for the first time.

Whiteley pushed hard in the final moments, with Dylan firing from the edge of the box, Ousman attempting an audacious lob, and Lyle shooting over. Despite their efforts, Hayling managed the game well, running down the clock to secure all three points.

A thrilling, high-intensity contest filled with moments of brilliance and heartbreak, Whiteley gave everything but were left empty-handed at the final whistle. Will Bell was outstanding throughout, controlling the game from midfield and playing a key role in one of the goals, earning him a well-deserved Man of the Match award.

Final Score: Whiteley Wanderers 3 – 4 Hayling United

Whiteley Wanderers Line-Up:

Starting XI: Vickery, Harding, Godwin, Hancock, Perry (85), Hills (76), Radford (64), Bell, Kerby-Dickinson, T. Davies (67), Newman
Substitutes: Boye (76), Harry (64), Hill (85), Paramor (67)

Goals:
⚽ Aaron Kerby-Dickinson (20′, 25′)
⚽ Ousman Boye (80′)

Man of the Match: Will Bell

Despite the result, Whiteley showed resilience and attacking quality. Lessons will be learned, and they’ll look to bounce back in their next fixture.

Whiteley Wanderers 1 – 5 Crofton Saints

Despite a challenging result, Whiteley Wanderers can take plenty of positives from this performance, with five under-18 players featuring in the squad—highlighting the club’s commitment to developing young talent. Against a well-organised Crofton Saints side, the team showed moments of real promise and resilience, battling hard throughout the game.

First Half

Both teams started cautiously, feeling each other out in the early exchanges. However, it was Crofton who struck first, winning an early corner and capitalising with a free header into the net. They continued to apply pressure, forcing Whiteley’s defence into action, but Jack Vickery made some solid saves to keep the deficit at one.

Whiteley soon found their rhythm, with Dylan threading a pass to Tommy, only for Crofton’s defence to clear. Bell then came close, striking just over the bar from Josh’s long throw. Bell was in the thick of the action again, winning the ball in midfield and setting up Tommy, who was outmuscled before he could get his shot away. Another opportunity arose when Joe battled through midfield to set up Bell, whose strike narrowly missed the target.

Despite Whiteley’s attacking efforts, Crofton remained dangerous. Bell launched a long ball to Harrison, but his cross into the middle found no one. Moments later, Dylan played in Owei, who drove forward before delivering a pinpoint cross for Charlie Hancock to finish well, bringing the game level.

Crofton responded immediately, delivering another well-placed corner that resulted in a second free header and goal. Whiteley’s defence, along with Vickery, worked tirelessly to keep the score at 1-2 heading into halftime.

Half Time: Whiteley Wanderers 1 – 2 Crofton Saints

Second Half

Whiteley started brightly after the break, with Owei, Joe, Bell, and Harrison pushing forward in search of an equaliser. However, Crofton struck early again, breaking down the right before delivering a cross that was converted straight down the middle.

They soon had the ball in the back of the net again, but the goal was ruled offside. Whiteley suffered a setback when Reece picked up an injury and was forced off after attempting to continue.

A misjudged goal kick then gifted Crofton a golden opportunity in the box. Vickery made a fine initial save at close range, but the second effort went just wide. Crofton dominated possession, patiently dictating the tempo and forcing Whiteley deep into their own half.

Whiteley’s defence battled hard to contain the pressure, and there was a brief attacking spark when Harrison and Dylan combined down the right, earning a free kick after Dylan was fouled. Bell floated the ball towards Hill at the back post, but he couldn’t steer it goalward.

Crofton’s patient build-up eventually paid off, as they broke down the right once again, delivering a cross that was met by a diving header for their fourth goal. Just two minutes later, a long ball through the middle resulted in a well-taken finish to seal a 5-1 victory.

Final Thoughts

While the scoreline wasn’t in Whiteley’s favour, there were plenty of encouraging signs. The inclusion of five under-18 players reflects the club’s belief in youth development, and despite the challenge of facing a strong Crofton side, the team worked hard and showed moments of quality. Tom Hill made his debut and was inches away from marking it with a goal, while Vickery put in a standout performance between the posts.

Whiteley will take the positives, regroup, and look to come back stronger in the next fixture.

Match Details

Line-up: Vickery, Harding, Godwin, Finn (61), Perry, Hancock, Radford, Bell, Farlow (66), T Davies (54), Owei
Subs: Hill (66), Hills (61), Whatley (54)

Man of the Match: Jack Vickery
Whiteley Wanderers Goal Scorer: Charlie Hancock (34’)
Crofton Saints Goal Scorers: (4’, 38’, 53’, 86’, 88’)
Yellow Cards: Crofton Saints (34’, 69’)

A tough match, but one filled with valuable lessons. On to the next!

Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 3 Overton United
1st February 2025

After a weather-enforced break last week, Whiteley Wanderers returned to action, welcoming Overton United, who sat third in the table. It was a challenging match, with Whiteley working tirelessly but ultimately unable to break through a well-organised Overton side.

First Half

The game started with Overton having the first opportunity, but they sent their shot well over the bar. Whiteley responded as Matt drove into the box, only to be brought down—yet, to the disbelief of both teams, no penalty was given. Overton then broke down the left, but Dylan tracked back well, making a strong challenge to put the ball out for a corner.

The visitors kept pressing, but Whiteley’s defence held firm. Vickery was quick off his line to make things difficult for Overton’s striker, who dragged his shot wide. Despite Overton’s pressure, Whiteley carved out opportunities of their own. Josh sent a long ball forward to Dylan, who whipped in a cross, but Overton’s defence was first to it, preventing it from reaching Owei. Bell attempted a similar move down the opposite flank, floating a ball toward Matt, but the defender shielded it out of play.

Whiteley began breaking Overton down in midfield, with Kerby winning possession and firing a shot that was blocked, the rebound falling to Ben, who struck it over the bar. Overton regained composure, but Josh and Dylan combined well to halt their attack. A speculative lob attempt was calmly dealt with by Vickery, who collected the ball before it crossed the line.

Charlie then picked out Matt with a long pass, forcing the Overton keeper to rush out and head the ball clear. However, Overton eventually found the breakthrough with a well-rehearsed free-kick routine, catching Whiteley off guard. They pushed for a second, but solid defending from Josh and more sharp goalkeeping from Vickery kept the deficit at one.

Whiteley came close to an equaliser before the break. Harrison started a move, playing out to Kerby, who linked up with Matt before setting up Bell for a shot that forced a corner. Moments later, Matt won a free kick and struck a powerful effort that rattled the crossbar. Overton maintained the pressure, leading to yellow cards for both Charlie and Bell just before halftime.

Half-Time: Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 1 Overton United

Second Half

Overton started strongly after the restart, keeping Vickery busy in goal. Whiteley soon settled, with Owei pressing the keeper after a long ball from Charlie, and Harrison linking up with Dylan to push forward, though they couldn’t get a decisive ball into the box.

However, Overton capitalised on a slow defensive response, breaking through with minimal challenges to double their lead. Whiteley found themselves pinned in their own half, struggling to gain momentum. In response, Dave and Steve made a double substitution, handing Liam his debut and bringing on Marcus, who immediately put pressure on Overton’s defence.

Despite Whiteley’s best efforts, Overton continued to dominate possession. A powerful free-kick was comfortably gathered by Vickery, and the Whiteley defence had to block multiple shots in quick succession. Overton struck the crossbar with a fierce effort, and Vickery did well to collect the rebound.

Whiteley looked for a way back into the game, with Marcus, Liam, Owei, and Bell linking up, but Bell’s final shot was safely held by the keeper. Bell continued trying to create in midfield, finding Liam twice, but Overton’s defence remained resolute, muscling him off the ball.

Overton pressed for a third goal, with Dylan and Vickery making crucial interventions, the latter showing bravery by diving at the striker’s feet to deny a clear chance. However, the visitors eventually sealed the win with a counterattack, punishing Whiteley’s stretched defence with a well-placed strike into the net.

Tommy entered the fray and made an immediate impact—earning a yellow card with his first tackle. Whiteley pushed for a late goal, and Bell showcased some impressive footwork before playing in Owei, who teed up Marcus, but his shot went wide.

Despite a valiant effort, Whiteley couldn’t find a breakthrough. Every player put in a real shift, but Overton’s organisation proved too difficult to break down. A standout performance from young goalkeeper Jack Vickery earned him the Man of the Match for his excellent shot-stopping and brave goalkeeping throughout the game.

Final Score: Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 3 Overton United

Line-up: Vickery, Harding, Godwin, Hancock, Yeo, Lainson (56), Hills (56), Radford (81), Kerby-Dickinson, Bell, Owei
Subs: T Davies (81), Paramor (56), Swann (56)
Man of the Match: Jack Vickery
Goals for Overton United: 27′, 52′, 80′
Yellow Cards: Lainson (23′), Hancock (42′), Bell (42′), T Davies (82′), Overton (76′)

A tough result for Whiteley, but the commitment and effort from the team were undeniable. With this level of determination, the results will surely come in the matches ahead.

18th January 2025

Whiteley Wanderers hosted AFC Netley, who entered the match sitting six places above them in the league standings. Despite the gap, Whiteley approached the game with determination and a point to prove.

Netley started brightly, striking the crossbar from an early free kick. Whiteley responded, with Dylan making a strong run down the right before being stopped by a robust challenge. Rory came close soon after, turning neatly to meet Bell’s lofted pass, but his shot rolled wide. Netley pushed forward but found goalkeeper Vickery in fine form, confidently dealing with their efforts.

Whiteley enjoyed a period of pressure as Bell and Rory linked up well to set up Kerby, though the chance ultimately went out for a goal kick. However, a setback came when Kerby suffered an injury in a brave 50-50 challenge and had to be substituted. Moments later, Sherwood’s late tackle earned him a yellow card, but following a heated discussion with the referee, the decision was upgraded to a red. Reduced to ten men, Whiteley faced an uphill battle for the remainder of the match.

Netley sought to take advantage of the extra man, but Vickery and the Whiteley defence stood firm, absorbing the pressure and clearing their lines effectively. The half ended with Whiteley pushing forward, earning a free kick that Dylan nearly controlled to create a chance.

Half-Time: Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 0 AFC Netley

Whiteley came out of the break with renewed intent, but Netley broke the deadlock early in the second half, taking advantage of their numerical superiority with a quick counter down the left to go 1–0 up. Whiteley, undeterred, dug deep and showed immense grit. Bell and Harrison combined to float a ball into the box, but it narrowly evaded Matt.

Netley continued to test Vickery from distance, but the goalkeeper’s bravery kept them at bay. Whiteley’s persistence finally paid off when Harrison threaded a perfectly weighted ball to Rory, who finished clinically to bring the game level. Despite being a man down, Whiteley played with intensity and purpose, making it difficult for Netley to control the game.

As the match wore on, Whiteley piled on the pressure, with Dylan and Rory driving forward and creating openings. Late in the game, Tom flicked on a long ball to Dylan, who linked up with Harrison, but they were unable to find the decisive touch. Netley, visibly tiring, resorted to long balls, which Whiteley dealt with confidently.

The final whistle marked a hard-earned draw, with Whiteley displaying incredible resilience and teamwork to overcome the odds. The effort, passion, and determination from every player ensured they came away with a well-deserved point.

Full-Time: Whiteley Wanderers 1 – 1 AFC Netley

Whiteley Wanderers Line-Up:
Vickery, Harding, Finn, Hancock, Yeo, Lainson (61), J Davies, Sherwood, Kerby-Dickinson (34), Bell, Newman (85)
Substitutes: T Davies (unused), Godwin (61), Hills (85), Paramor (unused), Radford (34)

Man of the Match: Rory Newman
Goal Scorers:

• Whiteley Wanderers: Rory Newman (70)
• AFC Netley: (50)

Yellow Cards: Sherwood (37)
Red Cards: Sherwood (38)

Despite the challenges, Whiteley showed exceptional character to compete against the odds, proving their strength and unity as a team. This performance sets a solid foundation for the matches ahead.

Match Report: Whiteley Wanderers 1 – 3 Hedge End Town

11th January 2025

The first match of 2025 saw Whiteley Wanderers host Hedge End Town, one of the joint second-placed teams in the league. Both sides began the game cautiously, testing the waters without committing too much too early. The first chance fell to Whiteley, as Joe threaded a ball to Angelos, whose shot was saved comfortably by the Hedge End goalkeeper. Hedge End responded with a series of threatening attacks, only to be denied by defensive interventions from Dylan and Josh, though Whiteley struggled to clear their lines effectively.

Hedge End eventually capitalised on their pressure with a long throw that Whiteley failed to deal with, resulting in the opening goal. Both teams traded chances, with Hedge End striking the upright and the crossbar, while Whiteley came close through Angelos and Owei, whose strong efforts were well saved. However, Hedge End doubled their lead after Whiteley’s goalkeeper, Vickery, was unable to claim a long ball, allowing Hedge End to finish into an empty net.

Whiteley pushed hard for a goal before halftime, with Kerby threading a brilliant ball to Angelos, only for a last-ditch tackle to deny him. Owei also found himself in a promising position following a defensive error but couldn’t capitalise. The half concluded with Whiteley trailing 0–2 despite a determined effort to break down the Hedge End defence.

Half-Time: Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 2 Hedge End Town

The second half started brightly for both teams, with Whiteley showing renewed determination. Angelos weaved through defenders but saw his pass intercepted. Whiteley’s pressure grew, with Joe, Kerby, and Harrison working together effectively, while Jack’s header from a free kick was comfortably saved. Hedge End remained dangerous, forcing Whiteley to stay alert defensively.

A tactical shift to three at the back by Whiteley allowed for more offensive momentum, but Hedge End exploited the adjustment immediately, breaking down the flank and slotting home their third goal. Despite the setback, Whiteley didn’t give up. Rory’s strong midfield presence helped break up play, and when Harry linked with Kerby, the ball fell to Bell, who fired home to give Whiteley hope.

The Wanderers continued to press, with Angelos leading the attack, but Hedge End’s defence stood firm. Jack attempted a long-range effort, while Ben and Dylan tried to unlock the opposition, but the final ball just wouldn’t stick. Late efforts from Harry and Angelos kept Hedge End on their toes, but time ran out before Whiteley could further narrow the deficit.

Full-Time: Whiteley Wanderers 1 – 3 Hedge End Town

It was a challenging first half for Whiteley, but their second-half performance showed resilience and determination, with some standout individual displays. Despite the loss, the team can take positives from their fightback and look forward to building on this performance in future matches.

Whiteley Wanderers Line-Up:
Vickery, Radford (65), Godwin (65), Hancock, Harding, Faulkner (29), J Davies (71), Sherwood, Kerby-Dickinson, Amorginos, Owei (76)
Substitutes: Bell (76), Cook (71), Lainson (29), Newman (65), Yeo (65)

Man of the Match: Aaron Kerby-Dickinson
Goal Scorers:

• Whiteley Wanderers: Will Bell (39)
• Hedge End Town: (6, 34, 66)

Yellow Cards:

• Hedge End Town: (61, 79)

Whiteley’s focus now shifts to their next fixture, where they’ll look to carry their second-half momentum forward and secure a positive result.

Date: 21st December 2024

Whiteley Wanderers ended 2024 with a visit to top-of-the-league Broughton, a side that had already defeated them earlier in the season. This time, however, Whiteley delivered a thrilling performance, narrowly losing in a nine-goal encounter.

Broughton started the game with intent, but an early chance was snuffed out by Vickery, who headed clear outside his box. Whiteley responded quickly, forcing a defensive error as Dylan played Scott through, resulting in a corner. From the set piece, Whiteley shouted for handball after a Broughton defender blocked Scott’s shot on the line. The referee had no choice but to show a red card and award a penalty, which Ellis Kilty calmly converted to give Whiteley the lead.

Down to ten men, Broughton reorganised, sacrificing an attacker to maintain a strong backline. Whiteley looked to exploit the advantage, with Joe twice creating chances, first for Ellis, whose shot went straight at the keeper, and then for Scott, who set up Kerby, only for his effort to drift wide.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Broughton countered with pace and precision. A cross from the wing was finished clinically to equalise, and moments later, they capitalised on defensive lapses to make it 2–1. Whiteley’s attempts to retake control saw Rory, Ellis, and Scott linking up, but their attacks faltered. A free kick for Broughton forced a stunning save from Vickery, but the resulting corner led to their third goal.

Whiteley sought to reduce the deficit before half-time, with Rory’s strike from distance testing the keeper. Bell orchestrated several attacks, including a move that saw Ellis force successive corners, but Whiteley couldn’t break through before the whistle.

Half-Time: Broughton 3 – 1 Whiteley Wanderers

The second half began with Whiteley making changes, as Toby replaced Scott and Harrison pushed forward to the right wing. They started brightly, and a mistake by the Broughton keeper gifted Ellis a chance to set up Kerby for a composed finish.

Buoyed by the goal, Whiteley piled on the pressure. Dylan’s delivery found Ousman for a header, but the keeper saved well. Shortly after, a well-worked move between Rory, Ousman, and Jack culminated in a powerful shot from Jack that was also denied.

Whiteley’s persistence paid off when Bell forced a defensive error, allowing Ellis to fire home an equaliser and make it 3–3. Both teams pushed for the lead, but Broughton regained their advantage after Rory fouled an attacker in the box, conceding a penalty that was duly converted.

Whiteley found space down the left through Joe and Dylan, whose whipped cross-shot forced another save. With Broughton now resorting to time-wasting tactics and the game paused for a head injury, Whiteley capitalised on a moment of quick thinking. Spotting the keeper off his line, Charlie Hancock lofted a brilliant shot into the net, levelling the score at 4–4.

As the match entered added time, Broughton earned a dangerous free kick. The shot deflected off the wall, struck the post, and fell kindly for a Broughton player to score the winner with the game’s final kick.

Full-Time: Broughton 5 – 4 Whiteley Wanderers

Whiteley showed immense character, particularly in the second half, and were unlucky to leave without a point. The game was packed with positives, including standout goals and strong teamwork. Man of the Match: Jack Sherwood delivered an exceptional performance in defence, epitomising the team’s fighting spirit.

Line-up: Vickery, Radford (56), C Hancock, Sherwood, Harding, Newman (80), Bell, J Davies, Faulkner (45), Kerby-Dickinson, Kilty
Subs: Boye (56), S Hancock (80), T Hancock (45) (91), Hills (Unused), Steer (91)

Man of the Match: Jack Sherwood

Goal Scorers for Whiteley Wanderers: Ellis Kilty (6) Pen, (67), Aaron Kerby-Dickinson (48), Charlie Hancock (86)
Goals for Broughton: (11, 12, 22, 74 Pen, 93)

Yellow Cards: Jack Sherwood (24), Broughton (79)
Red Cards: Broughton (5)

Match Report: Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 0 QK Southampton
Date: 9th December 2024

For their final home game of 2024, Whiteley Wanderers welcomed QK Southampton to Oasis Academy Mayfield. Despite QK sitting bottom of the league, they proved to be far more resilient than their position suggested in a hard-fought encounter.

The game started slowly, with QK forced into an early substitution after one of their defenders suffered an injury within the opening two minutes. As play resumed, Whiteley applied a high press, controlling possession in QK’s half. The first opportunity fell to QK with a free kick, but Vickery comfortably gathered the effort.

Play quickly turned into an end-to-end contest, though both sides struggled to capitalise, with long balls proving largely ineffective. Whiteley began to settle, and the first real chance came through Bell, who tested the keeper from distance and earned a corner. Scott followed up with a strike from outside the box, but it was an easy save for the QK goalkeeper.

Whiteley built patiently, keeping possession well, but Owei’s eagerness saw him repeatedly caught offside against QK’s high defensive line. QK looked to take advantage of Whiteley’s attacking intent, breaking forward with increasing purpose. A promising QK attack was cut short by Spencer, who won the ball deep in Whiteley’s half and launched a long ball forward, only for Owei to be flagged offside once again.

Whiteley pressed on, with Ousman firing a long-range shot and Bell’s driven free kick striking the QK wall. Charlie stepped up for the next set piece but sent his effort high and wide. The hosts came close through Dylan’s driving run from left-back, combining with Owei, but his shot was well saved.

QK’s best opportunity of the half came from a one-on-one with Vickery, who bravely came off his line to make a crucial save. The rebound fell to a QK attacker, but skipper Charlie was on hand to clear the danger. As tensions grew, QK’s number 9 earned a yellow card for persistent fouls. Whiteley ended the half with two long-range efforts, first from Dylan and then a brilliant volley from Josh, both comfortably dealt with by the QK keeper.

Half-Time: 0 – 0

The second half saw Whiteley start brightly, with Scott taking an early shot and setting up Bell for another effort soon after. A promising team move culminated in a powerful strike from Dylan, which forced an impressive save from the QK goalkeeper.

However, QK remained dangerous on the break, exploiting gaps in the Whiteley midfield. Their attackers fired shots regularly, though most either went wide or straight at Vickery, who handled the pressure well. At the other end, QK’s defence became increasingly impenetrable, dealing comfortably with chances from Charlie, Bell, and Owei.

QK came close to breaking the deadlock when a loose pass ran wide to their striker, who somehow whipped the ball back across goal, forcing a goal-line clearance from Dylan. Whiteley remained resolute under pressure, determined not to concede.

In a late push for a goal, Charlie played Scott through on goal, only for the QK defender to pull him back, earning Whiteley a free kick. Lyle struck the set piece well, forcing a full-stretch save from the QK keeper. The final chance of the match fell to QK, who threw everything forward in search of a winner, but Vickery produced a heroic save on the goal line to keep the scores level.

Full-Time: Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 0 QK Southampton

It was a fair result in a game where both teams showed resilience and determination. QK played far better than their league position suggested, giving Whiteley a tough challenge. The Man of the Match was awarded to Reece Finn for an outstanding debut performance at centre-back, though any of the back five could have claimed the accolade after a superb defensive display.

Next week, Whiteley travel to face top-of-the-league Broughton, who were recently unbeaten. Let’s get behind the team and see if they can secure three points!

Line-up:
Vickery, Radford (77), Godwin, Finn, Harding, C Hancock, Boye (83), Bell, Faulkner (89), S Hancock (58), Owei

Subs: T Davies (89), Harry (58), Hills (83), Steer (77)

Man of the Match: Reece Finn

Yellow Cards: Ousman Boye (57), QK Southampton (41, 86)

Amid the chaos caused by Storm Darragh, Whiteley Wanderers braved the conditions to travel north to Basingstoke for a league match against Twentyten. Sitting 11th, Whiteley faced a team at the bottom of the table in what would prove to be a challenging encounter shaped by the unforgiving weather.

The game began tentatively as both teams adjusted to the strong winds and driving rain. Whiteley created the first notable chance when Bell played Jack through on goal, but his shot drifted wide. Twentyten responded by breaking forward, earning a free kick after Jack committed a foul, but the attempt was struck harmlessly into the wall.

Whiteley had their moments, with Matt’s deep free kick finding Marcus, who flicked it on to Dylan for a long-range shot that narrowly missed. Sustained pressure saw Angelos and Dylan link up well, with Angelos firing straight at the keeper. Dylan attempted an audacious overhead kick from Matt’s corner, but the resulting rebound from Harrison’s strike earned another corner.

Twentyten then seized the initiative, with a dangerous attack culminating in a goal amidst chaos in Whiteley’s box, assisted by the swirling wind. Another long-range attempt forced Vickery to tip the ball over, and the follow-up shot from the resulting corner was saved, though the striker was flagged offside.

Frustrations grew as Whiteley misjudged passes in the wind. A controversial moment saw Jack through on goal, only to be pulled down, but the referee ruled him offside. Jack’s protests earned him a sin bin, leaving Whiteley to regroup with ten men. Twentyten capitalised on the numerical advantage, doubling their lead with a deflected strike that left Vickery helpless.

Despite efforts from Bell, Kerby, and Angelos, Whiteley went into half-time trailing 2–0.

Half-Time: Twentyten 2 – 0 Whiteley Wanderers

Emerging from the break, Whiteley showed determination to fight back. Bell tested the wind with an early shot, and Kerby came close after a clever move from Marcus and Angelos. Charlie stepped up, winning the ball deep in his own half and driving forward to fire a shot that the keeper fumbled into the net, reducing the deficit.

Twentyten pressed to restore their two-goal lead, but Whiteley’s defence, led by Dylan and Charlie, held firm. The stormy conditions caused a brief stoppage as damaged advertising boards were cleared. Once play resumed, Whiteley focused on keeping the ball on the ground, finding more success.

Late in the game, Charlie repeated his earlier heroics with another driving run, but this time his effort went out for a corner. Kerby and Willmott combined for a header that went over, and Dylan’s surging run through the defence ended without a shot.

Deep into injury time, Angelos drew a foul, giving Bell the chance to level the score. Bell delivered a perfectly struck free kick into the back of the net to make it 2–2. Whiteley pushed for a winner, with Angelos coming close before being forced off injured. Playing the final moments with ten men, Whiteley’s last chance fell to Willmott, but his shot went wide.

Full-Time: Twentyten 2 – 2 Whiteley Wanderers

In a game dominated by adverse weather, both teams battled hard but ultimately had to settle for a draw. On a day when conditions often dictated the play, the result reflected the effort and resilience of both sides.

Line-up:
Vickery, Radford, Hancock, Hills (79), Lainson (89), Harding, Sherwood, Bell, Kerby-Dickinson, Amorginos (93), Paramor (57)
Subs: Boye (79), Hunter (89), Willmott (57)

Man of the Match: Charlie Hancock

Goal Scorers for Whiteley Wanderers: Charlie Hancock (58), Will Bell (92)

Goals for Twentyten: (23, 42)

Yellow Cards: Harry Willmott (77), Twentyten (60, 78)

Sin Bin: Jack Sherwood (37)

After a week off, Whiteley travelled north to face Headley. The opposition began the game in 8th place, with Whiteley starting in 12th. Whiteley started brightly, with Scott breaking down the right in an early attack, but his quick feet betrayed him, and the opportunity came to nothing. Headley struggled to get a foothold in the game, conceding early free kicks. One of these was punished by Whiteley as Matt fired a shot from distance, which the Headley keeper fumbled into the back of the net.

Headley responded with attempts to breach Whiteley’s defence, but their efforts were thwarted, with one shot going wide and another straight at Vickery. Whiteley were forced into an early substitution, with Tom replacing Marcus in defence. In a subsequent attack, Harrison won the ball deep and found Owei, who spread it wide, though the move failed to produce a chance.

The next wave of attacks saw a well-executed build-up involving Harrison, Owei, Angelos, and Scott, culminating in a corner. Headley responded with a free kick that sliced through Whiteley’s defence but was deflected wide. Whiteley continued to press, keeping Headley in their half, but struggled to create clear opportunities. Headley countered with pace, beating the Whiteley defence, only to put the ball wide.

Whiteley came close again when Bell threaded a ball to Owei, whose shot rebounded to Scott, who, from just yards out, sent it over the bar. Moments later, Bell fed Scott again, but the winger couldn’t find space to shoot or cross. Skipper Charlie joined the fray, winning the ball and unleashing a shot from distance. Headley retaliated with a well-crafted chance, but Vickery dealt with it easily.

Headley then capitalised on an opportunity, working the ball out wide before delivering a pinpoint cross for a simple header to equalise. Both sides traded chances, with Angelos firing high and Headley forcing a deflection wide for a corner. Whiteley struck back when Matt drove into the box and won a penalty, which Bell coolly converted.

Determined to extend their lead, Whiteley pressed again, with Matt delivering a dangerous cross into the box, but no one was there to meet it. Bell’s vision soon found Scott, who calmly slotted the ball into the net to make it 1-3 just before half-time.

Half-Time: Headley 1 – 3 Whiteley

The second half began with Whiteley on the attack, but a promising ball into the box from Matt floated over Angelos’ head. Headley then drove forward, earning a corner that Dylan expertly defended. Scott surged forward, connecting with Matt, but the cross was too deep. Harrison came close with a long-range effort fumbled by the keeper, though no one was there to capitalise.

Headley’s attempts to claw back were met with staunch defending, as Dylan blocked a cross and Harrison cleared. Both sides created chances, with Rory testing the Headley keeper from distance and Headley forcing another easy save from Vickery. A moment of brilliance came as Dylan’s quick throw found Angelos, who danced through the defence, though his shot was easily saved.

As Headley countered, Dylan’s perfectly timed slide tackle denied them. Whiteley broke again, with Owei flicking to Matt, who crossed for Scott to finish clinically, completing his brace. Frustration boiled over for Headley, as their goalkeeper was sin-binned for dissent, leaving an outfield player in goal. Despite being reduced to ten men, Headley defended resolutely, limiting Whiteley to a single shot from Scott during this period.

Once Headley returned to full strength, Whiteley resumed their search for another goal. Rory, Angelos, and Toby combined in an intricate attack, but Headley’s defence held firm. The hosts nearly struck back, their best effort rattling the crossbar before Dylan cleared decisively.

In the closing stages, Scott hunted for his hat trick, outpacing the defence, but his shot was saved. Steve entered the fray for the final minutes, delivering a superb long ball to Toby, though Headley’s defence shut down the move. The last chance fell to Angelos, who received the ball from Owei but couldn’t find space for a shot.

A fantastic debut performance from Owei earned him the well-deserved Man of the Match award, showcasing relentless energy throughout the game.

Final Score: Headley 1 – 4 Whiteley

Line-up:  Vickery, Radford (81), Paramor (18), Hancock, Harding, Newman (87), Bell,  Lainson(68), Faulkner, Amorginos, Owei

Subs:  T Davies (81), S Davies (87), Hills (18), Jacobs (68)

Man of the Match:  Angokuromowoni Owei

Goal Scorers for Whiteley Wanderers:  Matt Lainson (6), Will Bell (39) (Penalty), Scott Faulkner x 2 (45, 63) 

Goals for Headley:  (34)

Yellow Cards:  Tom Hills (83).  Headley (77)

Sin Bin:  Headley (63)

Whiteley Wanderers 0 – 3 Mob Albion
Due to Overton progressing in the cup Whiteley welcomed Mob Albion instead to Oasis Academy Mayfield, with Mob Albion just one place and one point behind
Whiteley before the game.

Whiteley started quick with Ellis through on goal making the keeper pull off a great save, the rebound falls to Kerby who quickly shoots forcing another save from the keeper. Dylan then makes a darting run forwards from left back picking the ball up out wide and playing it into Ellis who crosses into the middle for a shot from Rory.

The focus then switched to the other end with Mob driving forwards forcing a save from Vickery. At this stage it was very a much a 50:50 game with end-to-end football. The next attack from Mob forced Vickery to race out denying them a chance at goal. Straight back down the other end and pressure from Whiteley creates a poor kick from the Mob keeper which Bell wins, striking the ball well but just over the crossbar. At this stage of the game Whiteley are getting shots off whenever they can, keeping the Mob defence busy. Whiteley then win a number of corners in quick succession which unfortunately come to nothing. From the last of these Mob break quickly to win their own corner at the other end of the pitch.

Whiteley struggle to clear the ball resulting in Mob putting their shot into the side netting. Whiteley then take the game down the other end with Kerby playing Ellis through who in turn slots it to Matt who was flagged offside.

At this stage Whiteley attackers are gambling at every attack and getting shots off at every opportunity. This gives Mob space to launch their own attacks but are first shut out by Dylan who
covers well and then by Vickery who pulls off a great save at close range. The next attacks come from Whiteley with Ellis putting Matt through for a shot straight down the middle. Kerby then puts Ellis through who battles hard through the Mob challenges but can’t find a shot through their defence.

Mob then pull the focus back to the other end winning a corner, they put in a great delivery which is met by a powerful header putting the ball beyond the Whiteley keeper. After going a goal down Whiteley don’t relax with both full backs getting involved in the attack and winning a corner. They continue to work hard to get a goal back with Bell striking the ball hard goalward which the keeper spills and their defender then puts it behind for a corner. On the next attack Matt has the ball in the back of the net after a great cross from Ellis who plays it into Rory for a shot off the post which falls to Matt who finishes cleanly. Unfortunately the ref saw something in the build up and rules the goal out for a foul.

Half Time 0 – 1

Both teams come out after the break looking for goals with Ellis having the first attempt and winning a corner. Whiteley try a quick corner which Mob win and then break quickly but great defending and a double block from Dylan keeps the score at 0 – 1. 10 minutes in Whiteley make a sub and a change of positions through the team to try something new. Whiteley continue to try hard to find a breakthrough with a long free kick forwards and the ball bouncing around falls to Harrison who lets off a rocket of a shot over the bar. Whiteley don’t stop there and keep bringing the attacks to Mob but their defence cope well with these.

Mob are doing well now to turn our attacks into counter attacks keeping our defence busy. Harrison again leads the next Whiteley attack working well with Dylan before Dylan puts Harrison in to again strike the ball well towards goal. At this stage Mob are bringing little to the game in open play, Ellis takes advantage of this with a volley at their keeper. Mob then take advantage of Whiteley losing the ball in the middle and pass the ball forwards into space, the Mob striker is quickest to react and strikes the ball well off the crossbar and into the net. Whiteley don’t let the score get to them though with attempts from Kerby and Matt then followed up by a powerful strike by Dylan which is palmed wide for a corner.

Ellis is next to draw a corner for the home team from a free kick. Mob continue to defend well keeping the Whiteley shots away from their keeper. Mob’s next attack drives the ball hard into the box which results in confusion between the Whiteley defenders and keeper and the ball ends up in the net. Was it an own goal? Very difficult to say given the confusion in the box. Whiteley haven’t finished yet though with a strong strike from Willmott followed by the last attack of the game resulting in Kerby having a shot straight at the keeper.

A difficult result to take this week as Whiteley were arguably the better team for most of the game. Unfortunately, Whiteley were unable to capitalise from their many chances at goal and Mob Albion were able to take the chances that fell to them. An entertaining game to watch and even if the scoreline didn’t favour the home team, there was a lot of positives to take away and work with for the next game. Whiteley now fall to 12 th in the table.

Line-up: Vickery, Radford (88), Godwin, Hancock, Harding, Newman (80), Bell (89), Hills (55), Lainson, Kerby-Dickinson, Kilty

Subs: T Davies (55), Paramor (80), Perry (88), Willmott (89), S Davies (Unused)

Man of the Match: Harrison Radford
Goal Scorers for Whiteley Wanderers:
Goals for Mob Albion: (35, 80, 94)
Yellow Cards: Ellis Kilty (92). Mob Albion x 2 (84, 92)