Gloucester City manager Daf Williams praised his team’s tenacity following their electrifying 3-2 victory against Poole Town in the Southern Premier play-off semi-final, decided after extra-time. This thrilling win propels Gloucester City into Monday’s final against Farnham Town.
The match began cautiously, with a tight first 20 minutes. Poole Town broke the deadlock when Harvey Slade’s cross was deflected off Gloucester City captain Keiran Thomas into their own net. However, Coventry loanee Rylie Siddall restored parity in the 34th minute with a stunning solo goal, weaving through Poole defenders before curling the ball into the bottom corner.
In the second half, Poole Town applied sustained pressure and reclaimed the lead in the 56th minute through Shaq Gwengwe who capitalized on a rebound. Despite numerous chances for Poole to extend their lead, Gloucester’s goalkeeper Jared Thompson produced outstanding saves to keep his team in the game.
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Gloucester City fought back late, with Joe Hanks equalizing in the 86th minute after connecting with a corner from Ed Williams, the ball hitting the bar and crossing the line, forcing extra-time.
The first period of extra-time was dominated by Poole Town who created several opportunities but failed to convert. In the final 15 minutes, Gloucester City seized control. Michael O’Regan fired a spectacular goal into the roof of the net in the 112th minute, igniting ecstatic celebrations from the home fans.
Williams was quick to commend Poole Town for their performance and lauded his squad’s resilience. “Poole were outstanding, but our players showed great character to fight back from setbacks. Rylie Siddall’s goal was a moment of brilliance that lifted us,” he said.
Williams singled out two key performers for their efforts: “Daniel Leadbitter was exceptional, showing tremendous stamina despite limited game time recently. Michael O’Regan’s saves were crucial, especially in critical moments. Jared Thompson has been a rock all season and deserved his heroics tonight.”
Line-ups:
Gloucester City: Thompson, Leadbitter, Lewis, O’Regan, Williams, Wildig (Waite 79), Thomas, Hanks, Baidoo (Spence 91), Simpson (Phillips 79), Siddall (Cross 86).
Poole Town: Parkes, McCormick (Diaz 79), C. Campbell (R. Campbell 46), Whisken, Lowes, Davis, Gwengwe, Hill, Slade, Jordan, Dore.
Attendance: 2,400.