Gloucester City manager Daf Williams experienced mixed emotions following a hard-fought 3-1 victory over Weymouth on Saturday. The match featured an impressive debut from Coventry City loanee Rylie Siddall, a late winning goal that sparked celebrations, and the announcement of defender Ben Richards-Everton’s sudden retirement due to a recurring injury.
Weymouth started strong, posing early threats, but it was Gloucester who struck first just before halftime. Siddall made a lively run down the left flank and delivered a precise cut-back to Harry Pinchard, who scored his second goal in as many games in the 44th minute, giving the home side a well-earned lead.
The second half swung momentum in Weymouth’s favor initially, culminating in a penalty after Keiran Thomas fouled Reuben Reid. Tom Bearwish confidently converted the spot-kick in the 54th minute to level the score. As the game approached its conclusion, tensions ran high, particularly for the visitors defending what could have been a crucial point.
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The decisive moment arrived in the 88th minute when Ellis Watts’ cross was misjudged by everyone, allowing the ball to bounce into the far corner and send the crowd into raptures. Moments later, in injury time, Watts exploited a gap in Weymouth’s defense, dribbled past opponents and unleashed a shot that was blocked, but King Baidoo was quick to pounce on the rebound and secure the winning goal.
Reflecting on the match, Williams shared, “The game went pretty much as we expected. We’d studied Weymouth’s previous games and knew they’d set up similarly. Patience was crucial, especially as they defend resolutely. Although our second-half start was shaky, I think we showed real character to come through.”
In a somber announcement, Gloucester City confirmed that defender Ben Richards-Everton retired on matchday due to a persistent injury. Williams paid tribute, saying, “It’s heartbreaking, but health comes first. Ben has been outstanding on and off the pitch, a tremendous professional and person. We wish him nothing but the best for the future.”
Siddall’s full debut was a highlight for the squad. Williams praised his performance, noting, “He was probably our best player in the first half and kept that up throughout. He’s worked incredibly hard and fits into the team very well.”
Team lineups:
Gloucester City: Thompson, Lewis, O’Regan, Phillips (Baidoo 29), Spence (Wildig 78), Watts, Thomas, Pinchard, Mohammed, Simpson, Siddall (Hanks 78).
Weymouth: Evans, Hutchinson, Douglas, Genesini (Neale 90), Bearwish, Goodship, Burrows (Reid 32), Robinson, Betts, Pollock, Stone.
Match details:
Referee: Ryan Price
Attendance: 1,222