Gloucester City secured a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Poole Town in the Southern Premier play-off semi-final, booking their place in Monday’s final against Farnham Town. Manager Daf Williams praised his team’s resilience after an intense and closely fought contest.
The match began cautiously, with both sides wary in the opening 20 minutes. Poole took the lead when Harvey Slade met a cross and squared the ball; a deflection off Gloucester captain Keiran Thomas sent the ball into the net. Gloucester responded in the 34th minute through a moment of individual brilliance from Coventry loanee Rylie Siddall, who weaved his way through defenders before curling a shot into the bottom corner.
In the second half, Poole regained the lead with Shaq Gwengwe capitalizing on a rebound in the 56th minute. They applied constant pressure and came close to extending their advantage, only to be denied by impressive goalkeeping from Jared Thompson.
READ MORE: Uncertainty Looms Over Stroud Lido’s Future Amid Council Reorganisation
READ MORE: Sexual assault in Henley: Girl, 16, attacked while walking home from school
Despite the pressure, Gloucester found an equalizer in the 86th minute. Following a corner from Ed Williams, Joe Hanks struck a shot that hit the bar and crossed the line, leveling the game for the second time.
The match remained deadlocked through full time, leading to an extra 30 minutes filled with thrilling action. Poole dominated the first half of extra time but failed to convert their chances. The momentum shifted dramatically in the final 15 minutes when Michael O’Regan unleashed a powerful strike into the roof of the net in the 112th minute, igniting wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Reflecting on the match, Williams said, “Firstly, I want to give credit to Poole. I thought they were outstanding. It was a really competitive contest. The first half was a bit slow due to the strong wind, which we discussed before kickoff."
Williams went on to highlight the resilience of his players after conceding two goals. “Rylie’s goal was an outstanding individual moment that shifted the game. Although we conceded two sloppy goals in the second half, we showed great character to come back.”
Two players stood out in the gritty encounter. Williams singled out Daniel Leadbitter, describing him as “a Rolls-Royce, like a gazelle,” noting his remarkable stamina despite recent injury troubles. He also praised O’Regan, whose crucial saves were pivotal in securing victory.
Goalkeeper Jared Thompson earned special mention for his consistently excellent performances throughout the season and his crucial interventions in this match.
The final whistle confirmed Gloucester City’s spot in the Southern Premier play-off final and showcased a thrilling display of determination and skill.
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.