Cinderford Town put on a commanding display to decisively beat local rivals Lydney Town 4-0 at The Causeway in the Forest of Dean derby. The home crowd was treated to a performance packed with intensity and precision, highlighted by Jack Watts’ brace, alongside goals from Harry Leeson and Kian Davies.
After a disappointing result against Hereford Pegasus, Cinderford’s manager Stephen Cleal demanded a strong response, urging his squad to be brave and determined. His instructions were clearly heard as the Foresters dominated from the outset.
Watts opened the scoring early with a crisp half-volley, setting the tone for a match where Cinderford controlled the pace and created numerous chances. The visitors attempted to challenge physically and disrupt the rhythm but struggled to contain the hosts’ energetic and fluid attacking play.
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Leeson extended the lead following a scramble inside Lydney’s box, tapping in after his initial strike hit the post. Shortly before halftime, Davies added a composed third goal after a dynamic run by Blaine Waugh, cementing Cinderford’s commanding first-half advantage.
Cleal acknowledged that the three-goal cushion was more than deserved and valuable for the team’s confidence. In the second half, Lydney came out with renewed energy but failed to penetrate Cinderford’s organized defense, as the home side shifted focus to maintaining control.
Watts narrowly missed a header and Hillier came close with a shot on goal, keeping pressure on the visitors. The match’s final highlight came in stoppage time when substitute Tino Shumba was fouled in the box, allowing Watts to seal his hat-trick with a penalty.
The victory carried significant meaning beyond the points, reflecting Cinderford’s commitment to their passionate supporters who packed the stadium. Cleal emphasized the importance of rewarding the fans with a memorable win in such a high-stakes local clash.
Looking ahead, Cinderford aims to build momentum as they approach the final three games of the season, focused on finishing strong and preparing for the next campaign. Their upcoming fixture sees them travel to face Cribbs FC, another side battling relegation alongside Lydney.
Cinderford Town: Jude Franks, Blaine Waugh, Sam Hunt, Charlie Caple, Nathan Dennis, Ben Watkins, Harry Leeson, Tom Chamberlain, Jack Watts (c), Ryan Hillier, Kian Davies. Subs: Ben Vine, Tino Shumba, Lewis Adams, Joe Keeping, Callum Tye.
Lydney Town: Alex Causon, William Hill-Wilson, Ben Prictor, Liam Sheppard, Toby Bendall, James Conway, Zac Prichard, Jordi Sheen (c), Lewis Thompson, Ibrihim Olateju, Declan Morley-Lyne. Subs: Tom Baldwin, Arron Jenkins, Dave Jenkins, James Addis, Tyler Blount.