Gloucester City manager Daf Williams insisted that the result was paramount following their hard-fought 2-1 win against promotion rivals Poole Town in the Southern League Premier South.
The match saw Coventry City loanee Rylie Siddall open the scoring with his first goal for Gloucester, striking brilliantly from 30 yards. Although Poole’s Shaquille Gwengwe leveled the score, Kane Simpson swiftly restored Gloucester’s lead with a decisive finish that ultimately secured all three points.
Williams acknowledged the kind of gritty mentality required at this stage of the season. “Results matter more than performances now,” he said. “We needed to come here and win by any means necessary. Our ball play wasn’t outstanding, but the team’s effort and determination were exceptional.”
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He praised his players for their tireless commitment, adding, “They’ve worked incredibly hard and truly represented the club with pride. They should enjoy this victory because sometimes we don’t appreciate our wins enough.”
Both teams entered the match tied on points and goal difference, intensifying the stakes. Gloucester dominated possession early on, applying pressure that led to the opening goal after a Poole mistake. Rylie Siddall capitalized on a loose ball, catching the goalkeeper off his line to score.
Despite Gloucester’s attacks being thwarted by Poole’s goalkeeper Adam Parkes—who made several key saves including one from Joe Hanks—the Tigers held a narrow lead at halftime.
The second half saw Poole improve significantly, equalizing shortly after the break through Gwengwe’s header from a well-delivered cross. However, Gloucester reacted immediately, with Simpson scoring within a minute following clever play down the right by Elis Watts.
Gloucester’s defense stood firm as Poole pressed for an equalizer, but the Tigers’ resilience ensured the victory. Sub Kris Campbell came close late on but couldn’t convert his opportunity.
Williams acknowledged the quality of the opposition: “Poole are a very good side, and they have made adjustments since we last faced them. Our players showed great character, fighting and backing each other up when under pressure.”
New signing Cuba Mitchell, the Bangladesh international midfielder, made a promising start, playing 66 minutes. Williams noted Mitchell’s composed performance despite limited time with the team, saying, “He simplified the game and won important battles on the pitch.”
The victory lifts Gloucester City three points above Poole to second place in the league standings, trailing leaders Walton & Hersham by nine points. Looking ahead to their next challenge against Bracknell Town, Williams expects another tough encounter: “Bracknell have transformed since our last meeting. It will be a demanding game.”
Gloucester City lineup: J Thompson, Thomas, Mohammed, O’Regan, Lewis, Siddall (Cross 90), Wildig, Mitchell (Baidoo 66), Watts, Hanks, Simpson.