Gloucester City manager Daf Williams described a mixed day of emotions following Saturday afternoon’s 3-1 triumph over Weymouth at the KMM Energy Stadium.
The match began with Weymouth showing early promise, but it was Gloucester’s Rylie Siddall who made a significant impact. The Coventry City loanee showcased his potential with an impressive run down the left flank, setting up Harry Pinchard to score just before halftime, marking Pinchard’s second goal in as many games.
Despite trailing 1-0 at the break, Weymouth responded strongly after the interval. Their pressure paid off in the 54th minute when a foul by Keiran Thomas on Reuben Reid led to a penalty, confidently converted by Tom Bearwish to level the score.
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As the match neared its final moments, the Tigers dramatically turned the tide. In the 88th minute, an unmarked Elis Watts delivered a cross that eluded defenders, bouncing into the far corner to give Gloucester City the lead and ignite the stadium. Moments later, in stoppage time, Watts exploited open space again, and though his shot was initially saved, King Baidoo was quickest to the rebound to seal the victory.
Williams praised his team’s patience and resilience throughout the game: “We knew Weymouth would defend deep and be tough to break down, so patience was key. Despite a sluggish start to the second half, our response was impressive.”
However, the day also brought somber news as defender Ben Richards-Everton announced his sudden retirement due to a recurring injury. Williams expressed his heartfelt appreciation: “It’s a gut-wrenching decision, but health must come first. Ben has been outstanding on and off the pitch and a true professional. We wish him nothing but the best for the future.”
Rylie Siddall’s full debut also caught the manager’s eye. “He was undoubtedly the best player on the pitch in the first half, showing great quality and work ethic. He’s going to be a valuable addition to our squad.”
Gloucester City lineup: Thompson; Lewis; O’Regan; Phillips (Baidoo 29); Spence (Wildig 78); Watts; Thomas; Pinchard; Mohammed; Simpson; Siddall (Hanks 78).
Weymouth lineup: Evans; Hutchinson; Douglas; Genesini (Neale 90); Bearwish; Goodship; Burrows (Reid 32); Robinson; Betts; Pollock; Stone.
Referee: Ryan Price
Attendance: 1,222