Month: September 2016

by Fungai Motezu

TICKET DETAILS FOR TOWN’S SOMERSET PREMIER CUP CLASH

A Yeovil First Team will take on Clevedon in the Cup, with only the Tamburino Stand open for the 7.45pm kick-off. 
Ticket prices are as follows:
Adults: £4
Senior/Junior/Disabled: £2
Supporters can purchase tickets via the Huish Park Ticket Office either in person or by calling 01935 847888. 
The usual matchday surcharge will not come into effect for this fixture, with prices remaining the same on the gate.  
by Fungai Motezu

LOAN WATCH: BASSETT MAKES FIRST DORCHESTER START

The 18-year-old almost scored a stunning volleyed effort on Saturday in the 1-0 win against St. Neots, but couldn’t stop the Magpies going down 3-1 at home to Chippenham Town in Evo-Stik Premier Southern League. 
Manager Mark Jermyn handed the loanee his first start since arriving at the Dorset Club a fortnight ago, with Bassett completing 80 minutes against Chippenham. 
The fixture was Bassett’s last involvement with Dorchester before he heads to Poland with the Northern Ireland Under-19 squad for their upcoming UEFA European Championship qualification matches in Poland. 
You can read more on Bassett’s international duty here.
by Fungai Motezu

WAY: WE DIDN’T COMPETE WELL ENOUGH

The Glovers surrendered their two game winning run with a 1-0 loss at the Abbey Stadium thanks to Mark Roberts’ second half effort. 
Having come into the game off the back of an emphatic 4-2 victory against Cheltenham Town, Way was disappointed with the nature of the performance in Cambridgeshire. 
“All over the pitch they (Cambridge) were more dominant and aggressive. It meant more to the opposition than us and they put is under pressure from start to finish. 
“They’re physical, get crosses into the box and we gave away a large number of set-plays. We didn’t compete well enough.”
The U’s were buoyed by their first win of the season away to Newport County last weekend and stifled Town’s attacking potency, with the Glovers failing to score for the first time in four matches. 
Town face a trip to Plymouth Argyle this Saturday with Way hoping for more combativeness from his young squad. 
“Cambridge were aggressive and I keep saying it because it meant more to them than us, but it’s important this group remain strong. 
“Every time we made a clearance they won the second ball, recycled it and put it back into the box – you need to compete and be physical – that’s what you need in a League Two match away from home at somewhere like Cambridge.
“Plymouth are a good team, but every game offers different problems at League Two level. This group will learn quickly.”
You purchase tickets for the Glovers trip to Devon by clicking here. 
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: CAMBRIDGE UNITED v. YEOVIL TOWN

After two wins on the bounce Town were unable to find a way past a stubborn Cambridge side, forcing them to return to Somerset empty handed. 
After stalemate in the opening 45 minutes, United took the lead just past the hour mark when defender Mark Roberts was in the right place at the right time to convert from close range. 
The Glovers threw caution to the wind in the closing minutes but were unable to find a way back into the match as Shaun Derry’s side held firm. 
Darren Way made one change to the side that saw off Cheltenham Town 4-2 at Huish Park on Saturday, with Kevin Dawson returning from suspension in place of Ben Whitfield who dropped to the bench at the expense of Kyle Copp in the matchday squad. 
In a stop-start opening 45 minutes it was the hosts who enjoyed the majority of possession, although neither ‘keeper was forced into any save of note. 
The first chance of the game fell to the U’s with nine minutes on the clock when Ben Williamson rounded Krysiak wide right inside the Glovers’ box, but Alex Lacey covered well to block Williamson’s attempted shot on goal. 
After that warning it was Town’s turn to come close to opening the scores after neat build-up play between Otis Khan and Matty Dolan. 
Having worked the ball into a crossing position the Yeovil midfielder fired in a dangerous cross which found Ryan Hedges at the back post, but his effort on the stretch resulted with the ball bouncing agonizingly over the crossbar. 
At the other end Luke Berry fired an effort over the bar after a strong run from U’s winger Jake Gosling, before Matt Butcher saw a driven shot from 20 yards trickle wide of Will Norris’ goal for Town. 
Just past the half hour mark Berry got another shot off on goal, this time seeing his low effort from 18 yards fly just wide of the target. 
Cambridge went even closer to scoring minutes later when Adam McGurk’s free-kick from 25 yards rippled the side-netting, before Gosling’s teasing cross somehow evaded U’s captain Leon Legge at the back post just before the break.  
Neither manager made changes to personnel at half-time, but after a relatively quiet 15 minutes after the restart Cambridge manager Shaun Derry introduced Uche Ikpeazu on the hour mark in place of Gosling in a bid to find a way of testing Krysiak. 
The hosts did just that with 65 minutes on the clock when Krysiak did well to initially save McGurk’s header from a Harrison Dunk corner, but the Polish stopper was hapless to stop Mark Roberts firing home the rebound to give Cambridge the lead. 
The goal coincided with Liam Shephard limping off with an injury forcing Way to introduce Bevis Mugabi, before Alex Lawless took to the field in place of Darren Ward five minutes later. 
Buoyed by taking the lead Cambridge and Roberts almost added a second from another corner, but Krysiak was alert to produce a stunning diving save to his right to somehow deny the U’s central defender. 
In a final throw of the dice Ben Whitfield replaced Otis Khan as the game approached the final ten minutes, but the hosts frustrated Town by running down the clock and seeing out the remaining few minutes to send the Green and Whites back to Huish Park empty handed, ending Town’s winning run in the process. 
Cambridge United: Norris; Halliday, Legge, Roberts, Taylor; Gosling (Ikpeazu 60’), Clark, Berry, Dunk; McGurk (Newton 75’), Williamson. 
Bookings: Berry 38’.
Subs not used: Gregory, Coulson, Long, Dallison, Foy.
Yeovil Town: Krysiak; Shephard (Mugabi 67’), Ward (Lawless 73’), Lacey, Smith; Dawson, Butcher, Dolan; Khan (Whitfield 79’), Eaves, Hedges.
Bookings: Lacey 35’, Shephard 54’, Dawson 71’.
Subs not used: Maddison, Ezewele, Sowunmi, Campbell.
by Fungai Motezu

KHAN HOPING FOR MORE OF THE SAME

The 21-year-old scored the opening goal after six minutes, provided the cross for Darren Ward to score and played a pivotal role in Matty Dolan’s headed goal on the stroke of half time.
After being named Man of the Match, Khan was pleased with his performance.
"To get on the score-sheet and get two assists, I certainly think it was my best performance of the season and hopefully I can get many more like it.
"The Gaffer has been talking to me all through the week about being calm on the ball. Some of the games at League Two level are 100 miles an hour and he just wanted me to calm down.
"I think today I was calm on the ball. I could have had two or three more goals but I think that will come."
The result – which Khan made a large contribution to – sees Town record back-to-back victories in Sky Bet League Two, catapulting Darren Way’s side towards mid-table. 
Yeovil travel to Cambridge United on Tuesday night looking to make it three wins in a row, something Khan is confident can happen.
“Before the Leyton Orient match it was five loses in a row, so hopefully it can be five wins on the trot now. We’ve got confidence going into games and know we can hurt anyone in the league. 
“Our energy levels compared to other teams are way up there, so if we continue to take chances we’ll win games.
“We’ll recover for the game and keep going,” the former Manchester United youth player said. “We know what we can do, all the spirits are high and we’re really confident going into Tuesday’s game.”
A full match preview for Tuesday’s match against Cambridge United can be found here, with tickets still available with details here.
by Fungai Motezu

PREVIEW: CAMBRIDGE UNITED v. YEOVIL TOWN

After back-to-back wins in the league the Glovers will be looking to make it three wins in a row when they head to the Abbey Stadium. 
Strikes from Otis Khan, Darren Ward, Matty Dolan and Tom Eaves helped Town secure a 4-2 win against Gary Johnson’s Cheltenham Town on Saturday, building on the 1-0 win away to Leyton Orient the week previous. 
Six points from two matches has boosted Darren Way’s side to 19th in the table, four points ahead of Tuesday’s opponents who picked up their first League Two win of the season on Saturday. 
Shaun Derry’s outfit saw off fellow strugglers Newport County 2-1 at Rodney Parade, with Uche Ikpeazu and Luke Berry on target for the U’s after previously drawing on three occasions and losing five times. 
Under the tenure of Derry, United made a late charge for the play-offs last season eventually finishing in ninth, seven points adrift of seventh place. 
However, Cambridge haven’t enjoyed the same vein of form so far this season with their only previous wins before Saturday coming in Round One of the EFL Cup (2-1 against Sheffield Wednesday) and in the opening fixture of the Checkatrade Trophy (1-0 against Shrewsbury Town). 
Head-to-head
The Glovers come in to Tuesday’s fixture having won five of the seven competitive fixtures between the two sides. 
Yeovil first met the U’s in the 1987 FA Cup Second Round tie, coming away from Cambridgeshire with a 1-0 win. 
In fact, Town won the following four fixtures between the two sides which all came in League Two, most notably recording wins both home and away during the 2003/04 season.
The Green and Whites claimed a 4-1 win at the Abbey Stadium thanks to goals from Jake Edwards (x2), Kevin Gall and Darren Way, before repeating the scoreline at Huish Park later in the season with Gavin Williams, Andy Bishop, Adam Stansfield and Colin Miles on target.
United have however won the last two meetings between the two teams which came last season. 
The U’s stormed into a 3-0 lead at Huish Park thanks to Rory Gaffney (x2) and Luke Berry before Ryan Bird and Josh Sheehan reduced the deficit to 3-2, but Derry’s side were 3-0 winners at home thanks to Ben Williamson (x2) and Jimmy Spencer after Everton loanee Liam Walsh received a straight red card for Town just 16 minutes into the match.
Referee
Mark Haywood (Yorkshire) will take charge of Tuesday’s match for his sixth fixture of the season. 
Mr Haywood took charge of Swindon’s 2-0 win at Oldham Athletic at the weekend, awarding four yellow cards in the process. 
The referee’s most notable fixture this season came in League One when he took charge of Bury 2-1 Shrewsbury Town, awarding six yellow cards and two red – Bury’s James Vaughan and Shrewsbury’s Adam El-Abd both received their marching orders after picking up two yellow cards each. 
Mr Haywood officiated just one Yeovil match last season, sending off Portsmouth’s Christian Burgess in the 1-1 draw at Huish Park for a second yellow, with Town’s Ben Tozer the only other player to go into the book. 
Mr Haywood will be supported by Graham Kane (East Sussex) and George Warren (London) with Robert Massey-Ellis (West Midlands) taking on the role of fourth official. 
Coverage 
Minute-by-minute updates will be provided on our official Twitter account which can be found here, with additional updates available via our official Facebook page. 
If you’re unable to attend the game a full match report will follow on ytfc.net at full-time with post-match reaction from manager Darren Way and a member of the playing staff following soon after.
Tickets
Ticket information can be found by clicking here, which includes information for disabled supporters as well as fans who may require blind commentary. 
by Fungai Motezu

GALLERY: NEW JUNIOR GLOVERS FAMILY AREA CABIN OPENS

The Cabin was open for the first time prior to the League Two match against Cheltenham Town, with Darren Way and members of the first team squad on hand to try out the new facility. 

Open on every home matchday from 1pm, the Cabin is kitted out with table football, game consoles, televisions, seating and a colouring area. 
In the coming weeks a small AstroTurf pitch will also be put down outside the Cabin to accommodate fun kick-abouts. 
Here’s some of the images from Saturday’s official opening, which can also be viewed on our Facebook page (images by PPAUK). 
by Fungai Motezu

LOAN WATCH: BASSETT IMPRESSES FOR DORCHESTER

The 18-year-old came on at half-time in the Evo-Stik League Southern Premier fixture, once again making an impact from the bench. 
Bassett, who provided an assist on his debut in the 4-0 win against Frome Town two weeks ago, almost doubled the Magpies’ lead midway through the second half with a spectacular volley, whilst his harrying of the St. Neots defence led to teammate Nathan Walker firing a shot straight at the visiting ‘keeper when through on goal.
The victory saw Dorchester pick up their first league win at home in seven months, continuing Bassett’s 100% record since arriving on a month’s loan at the Dorset club.  
The Northern Ireland Under-19 international made a good impression on his home league debut and will be pushing to start in Tuesday night’s league clash with Chippenham Town at the Avenue. 
by Fungai Motezu

WAY TAKES INSPIRATION FROM BLIND SUPPORTER

Audrey Dyson, who’s 91 years old and blind, has missed only a handful of fixtures at home since 1998, holding a season ticket for almost two decades.
Attending matches with her son Nigel and listening to blind commentary of the games, Audrey has previously explained the feeling when Yeovil score as ‘tickling her all the way inside’ and being ‘so exciting’. 
For Way, he used Audrey’s support as inspiration for the performance against the Robins. 
"I took the players to sit in the back of the stand," he said. "I’ve been here for 16 years and have never actually sat there.
"I’ve started going around the ground to see what supporters are seeing. I think they took that on board.
"There’s a lady who sits over there who’s 91 years of age. Her name’s Audrey. I said ‘lads do me a favour today, when she comes to the game every time we score it tickles her. So let’s do our best today to see how many goals we can score.’
"I’m hoping Audrey’s a happy lady."
You can read the official full match report from Town’s 4-2 win against Cheltenham Town here.
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: YEOVIL TOWN v. CHELTENHAM TOWN

Just six minutes were on the clock when Otis Khan gave the Glovers the lead, with the winger on hand to tap in from close range after the Robins ‘keeper failed to gather Tom Eaves’ low cross. 
The hosts’ lead was doubled after 16 minutes when captain Darren Ward converted Khan’s corner with a pinpoint header, leaving Gary Johnson’s side stunned. 
With four minutes of the first half remaining Aaron Downes got a goal back for the visitors from a corner of their own, before Matty Dolan made it 3-1 minutes later with a fine diving header.
Town almost added to their lead in the second half through Eaves, but just before the hour mark Cheltenham made it 3-2 through Billy Waters after Danny Wright’s penalty was initially saved by Artur Krysiak, with the attacker alive after the ball was recycled.
Not to be defeated, Eaves scored a stunning solo goal in the dying embers of the game to round of an entertaining afternoon of football at Huish Park and secure another three points for Town. 
Darren Way made one change to the side that picked up all three points at Leyton Orient last weekend, with Bournemouth loanee Ben Whitfield slotting into the midfield three in place of the suspended Kevin Dawson. 
In an open start to proceedings at Huish Park the Robins almost took the lead with just a minute on the clock when Downes’ header back across goal was met by Harry Pell on the volley, but his effort flew just wide of the target. 
After that early warning, Darren Way’s side took the lead with their first attack of the game after six minutes when Eaves’ powerful run and cross down the right wing could only be parried by Russell Griffiths, with Khan on hand to tap in from close range and give the hosts a dream start.
In a bid to get straight back into the game Harry Pell had an effort from 20 yards saved comfortably by Artur Krysiak, before the Glovers doubled their lead just past the 15-minute mark. 
Eaves had a dipping shot from the edge of the box tipped over the bar and from the resulting corner, an expertly executed set-piece saw Khan turn provider when his cross was emphatically headed past Griffiths by captain Ward to give Town a 2-0 lead.
The onslaught continued and only a smart save from the Cheltenham ‘keeper denied Khan a second from the angle, before a combination of Daniel Parslow and Griffiths somehow kept out Hedges’ low cross which cause chaos in the six-yard box. 
With the Robins unable to get into the game, Gary Johnson made two changes on the half hour mark introducing Jack Munns and Bill Waters for Easah Suliman and Jonny Smith, switching to a 4-4-2 formation.
The change brought some initial joy for the visitors as Aaron Downes headed home a Munns corner after 41 minutes to reduce the deficit, but Yeovil restored their two goal lead in first half stoppage time. 
Khan, who the visitors couldn’t fathom out in the opening 45 minutes, skipped past two Cheltenham defenders before having a curling effort from inside the box saved by Griffiths, but the Robins keeper only found Dolan whose brilliant stooping header found the top corner from 12 yards to send Darren Way in happy at the break. 
Town’s intensity continued after the break and Eaves came close to making it 4-1 after 48 minutes, but his glancing header from Khan’s whipped cross fell inches wide of the target. 
Cheltenham were handed a lifeline just before the hour mark however, when Eaves was adjudged to have pushed a Robins player in the penalty box with the referee immediately pointing to the spot.
Danny Wright saw his spot-kick excellently saved by Krysiak, but with the ball still in play substitute Waters was on hand to tap in from close range to make it 3-2. 
After conceding under unfortunate circumstances Yeovil looked to add a fourth goal and came close through Hedges, whose looping effort from just inside the box just cleared Griffiths’ crossbar. 
Way made a double substitution himself after 67 minutes, introducing Bevis Mugabi and Alex Lawless for Darren Ward and Ben Whitfield respectively, meaning Alex Lacey took hold of the captain’s armband. 
As the game entered the final five minutes Lawless almost made a telling contribution after coming on, but Griffiths produced a stunning point-blank save to tip over the Welshman’s header from a Hedges corner. 
But the Glovers didn’t have to wait long to score a fourth, as Eaves rounded off an impressive delay with a stunning solo goal. 
The striker breezed past Downes before rounding Griffiths and finding the net with the help of the post to round off a pleasing afternoon for Darren Way, as Yeovil claimed their second successive league win, sending former manager Johnson away empty handed in the process. 
 Yeovil Town: Krysiak; Shephard, Lacey, Ward (Mugabi 67’), Smith; Whitfield (Lawless 67’), Butcher, Dolan; Khan, Eaves, Hedges.
Bookings: Dolan 73’, Butcher 78’, Shephard 90. 
Subs not used: Maddison, Ezewele, Copp, Sowunmi, Campbell. 
Cheltenham Town: Griffiths; Suliman, Downes, Parslow, O’Shaughnessy; Smith (Munns 31’), Pell, Dickie, Suliman (Waters 31’); Dayton (Hall 81’), Wright.
Bookings: Wright 90’, Pell 90’. 
Subs not used: Kitscha, Barthram, Morgan-Smith, Thomas. 
by Fungai Motezu

SPOT THE BALL AND WIN A FAMILY TICKET

Pick up and fill out the entry form for the ‘Spot the Ball’ competition and post it in Jolly’s Postbox – the Cabin will be open from 1pm with a range of activities including performances from Dance Fit and the chance to play on the latest game consoles. 
All correct entries will be placed into a draw with a winner contacted next week. 
A family ticket will consist of two adult and two junior tickets for the match at Huish Park. 
by Fungai Motezu

NEW JUNIOR GLOVERS FAMILY AREA CABIN SET TO OPEN

The indoor space will provide pre-match entertainment and activities for our younger fans from 1pm on matchdays.

 

Situated on the corner of the Tamburino and Thatchers Gold stands, the Cabin will offer a fun build-up to the game with entertainment including a range of activities and competitions, Table Football and visits from the players before the game.

 

The Cabin has been fitted with the latest game consoles and several large screen TV’s so kids will be able to test their gaming skills on the latest FIFA 17 game whilst there’s also areas for colouring and relaxing.

 

All ages are welcome to the Cabin where members of the first team squad will also be present to chat to fans.

 

The area also features ‘Jolly’s Postbox’ which allows our young supporters to write to their favourite players, which the Jolly Green Giant will collect and deliver to the first team.

Speaking ahead of the launch Marilyn Cottle, from the Junior Glovers, believes the Cabin will be an enjoyable addition to the matchday experience at Huish Park.

 

 “This is going to be a great new addition to the ground for kids and their families on matchdays. It will offer a space come rain or shine where our younger supporters can enjoy the pre-match build-up surrounded by an array of activities.”

 

.hereThe Junior Glovers Cabin will be open from 1pm on Saturday and will also have Dance Fit on hand to provide entertainment! Also, Don’t forget there’s a £5 discount off matchday prices for the Cheltenham game when you buy your tickets online by clicking 

 

by Fungai Motezu

TICKETS ON SALE FOR CHECKATRADE TROPHY TRIP TO BRISTOL ROVERS

The Glovers got off to a flying start in the Checkatrade Trophy Southern Group A with a 4-3 win against Portsmouth to put Yeovil top of the table. 
To purchase tickets for the second group stage fixture at the Memorial Ground, you can call the Ticket Office Hotline on 01935 847888 or buy online by clicking here.
Ticket prices are as follows:
Adults: £5
65+/Under-16’s:  £1
Disabled/Wheelchair – £1 – with carer free of charge. 
by Fungai Motezu

BERRY’S PROVIDE SPECIAL MATCHDAY SERVICE

The service operates from Bridgwater, Taunton and Ilminster with pick-ups from Bridgwater coach station, Taunton Kings Arms and Ilminster Market Square with a similar return service. 
For a 3pm kick off the service runs at 12noon from Bridgwater, 12.30 from Taunton and 1pm from Ilminster. 
For an evening kick off (7.45pm) the service departs Bridgwater at 4.45pm, Taunton at 5.15pm and Ilminster at 5.45pm. 
A return ticket costs £9 for adults and £5 for children. To book call 01823 331356 or e-mail info@berryscoaches.co.uk.
We look forward to seeing you at Huish Park with the help of Berry’s!
by Fungai Motezu

GLOVERS TO WELCOME PARALYMPIAN GILES MOORE

The lifelong Glovers supporter returned from the Paralympic Games in Rio earlier this week having helped GB’s seven-a-side team to a fifth-place finish in Brazil, playing every minute of their four fixtures. 
After narrowly going down 2-1 in the group stages to eventual gold and bronze medallists Ukraine and Brazil, GB recovered to beat Ireland 5-1 before sealing fifth place with a 2-0 win against Argentina. 
Giles visited Darren Way and the first team in August before heading to South America and will now be a part of matchday at Huish Park on Saturday as Guest of Honour. 
Everyone associated with Yeovil Town Football Club would like to congratulate Giles on his achievements with the Team GB seven-a-side squad. 
by Fungai Motezu

PREVIEW: YEOVIL TOWN v. CHELTENHAM TOWN

After getting back to winning ways last weekend at Leyton Orient thanks to Tom Eaves’ second half header, Town will be looking to continue their rise up the table against the newly promoted Robins. 
Yeovil were applauded off the pitch at the Matchroom Stadium by all four sides of the ground last weekend, and Darren Way will be looking for more of the same from his side as they look to build momentum in the league. 
The fixture will also see former Yeovil manager Gary Johnson return for the first time since leaving in February 2015 – Johnson guided the Green and Whites to three promotions and one FA Trophy title across two spells between 2001 and 2015. 
On paper, there’s nothing to separate the two sides with Cheltenham sitting one place above the Glovers on goal difference having both taken seven points from the first eight games.
The Robins have won just once, drawing on four occasions and losing three times – their sole win came on the 27th August, beating Crewe Alexandra 2-0 at home. 
Last time out, Johnson’s side lost 3-2 at home to Notts County with Danny Wright and Harry Pell on target for Cheltenham. 
The Gloucestershire Club are back in the Football League after just one season in the National League. Cheltenham were crowned champions after amassing 101 points and finishing 12 points ahead of second-placed local rivals Forest Green Rovers. 
Two of their key players from their promotion campaign last season are still at Whaddon Road – Dan Holman won the National League’s Golden Boot with 30 goals, whilst Wright netted 22 times collecting 11 assists along the way.
Holman is an injury doubt for the Robins, but could make his return from a foot injury at Huish Park on Saturday. 
Head-to-head
The two sides haven’t come together in the last three seasons with Yeovil in the Championship and League One before Cheltenham were relegated to the National League prior to the Glovers returning to League Two for the 2015/16 season. 
Town have won three of the 11 competitive meetings between the two sides, with their last victory coming in March 2008 when a goal from Andy Kirk and an Alan Wright own goal saw Yeovil claim a 2-1 win at Huish Park. 
Last time out, the Robins saw off Yeovil 1-0 thanks to a second half Frankie Artus strike at Whaddon Road in April 2009. 
Referee
Graham Salisbury (Lancashire) will take charge of Saturday’s meeting at Huish Park, officiating his first match involving the Glovers since December 2015. 
On that occasion, only four players went into the referee’s notebook with Matt Dolan picking up Yeovil’s solitary yellow card.
Mr Salisbury also took charge of Yeovil’s last game in the Championship at home to Middlesbrough in May 2014, with just three bookings in that match including two for Town. 
On Saturday, Mr Salisbury will be assisted by Andrew Laver (Hampshire) and Adam Matthews (Gloucestershire) with Mark Derrien (Dorset) taking on the role of fourth official. 
Coverage
Minute-by-minute updates will be provided on our official Twitter account which can be found here, with additional updates available via our official Facebook page. 
If you’re unable to attend the game a full match report will follow on ytfc.net at full-time with post-match reaction from manager Darren Way and a member of the playing staff following soon after.
by Fungai Motezu

PREMIER LEAGUE B TEAMS RULED OUT AFTER FIRST PHASE OF CONSULTATION

Following a meeting of its Clubs on Thursday (22 September), the EFL confirmed that the inclusion of Premier League B Teams, clubs from non-English leagues or those outside the English football pyramid will not form part of any ongoing discussions for the ‘Whole Game Solution’.
 
EFL clubs have been collectively discussing the fundamental issue of reforming the structure of English league football for the first time since agreeing to assess ideas put forward by the EFL Board at last summer’s Annual General Meeting.
 
Those suggestions, which aim to improve the format of EFL competitions and the revenues received by clubs, posed a number of critical questions and these have been the subject of a consultation process with clubs during this past six weeks.
 
All clubs, who will potentially vote on a final proposal in June 2017, have been considering the specific issues of regionalisation, the number of teams per division, divisional restructure, winter break and from where in the game the additional teams will come from. 
 
The majority of these issues, including how the funding re-distribution model will work in the future, will continue to be assessed as the discussions are shaped over the next two months, but the option of sourcing additional clubs from anywhere but the National League has been withdrawn.
 
In addition, the feedback has confirmed that clubs in League 1, 2 and the proposed League 3 would want to play through a winter break if introduced.
 
EFL Chief Executive Shaun Harvey said: “At the very outset of this process it was made clear that any decisions in respect of the future direction of the Whole Game Solution would be taken by clubs themselves and our announcement today comes as a result of their valued input.  I am extremely grateful for their candour and support during the first part of this consultation that will ultimately help shape a final proposal for voting on in June next year. 
 
“The logical place for many was to source the additional teams for League 3 from the National League but we felt it important that the debate was introduced at an early stage and an opportunity was provided for all Club owners’ and executives’ to voice any opinions and, where applicable, table concerns.  We will now continue our consultation with the National League with a little more certainty as to what any change could mean for them. These conversations will include the FA in their capacity as the Governing Body not a competition organiser.
 
“In addition, our dialogue will continue with the Premier League as we focus on ensuring we achieve our specific and primary objective of improving distributable revenue to our clubs and reaching a format that benefits the EFL, its competitions and the wider professional game.
 
He added:  “The next round of consultation will also see us undertake some work with fan groups and other stakeholders to ensure that those people who are invested in the future our game are given an opportunity to register their views.”
by Fungai Motezu

FIFA FANATIC? PLAY THE FIRST TEAM ON THE NEWLY RELEASED FIFA 17 VIDEO GAME

Thanks to EA Sports who are providing copies of the new video game, Glovers supporters will be able to take on manager Darren Way and members of his first team on September 29th – the day the video game is released.
The Junior Glovers Family Area Cabin – situated between the Tamburino and Thatchers Gold stands – will be open from 6pm to host the event with light refreshments available. 
The Cabin opens for the first time this Saturday ahead of Town’s match against Cheltenham Town at Huish Park and will provide pre-match entertainment for our young supporters at all home matches.
Complete with table football, a small AstroTurf outdoor pitch and indoor seating, the Cabin also contains televisions and the latest game consoles with a range of game titles. 
But if you think you can outwit the Gaffer or take on one of the first team players on the newly released FIFA 17, come along and stake your claim at being named the Yeovil Town FIFA 17 champion!
We’ll be providing updates of the event on our social media channels with two lucky gamers winning a signed copy of FIFA 17 – register your interest at coming to the event on our Facebook page, or we’ll see you on Thursday 29th September at 6pm!
by Fungai Motezu

TICKETS ON SALE FOR TOWN’S TRIP TO PLYMOUTH ARGYLE

The Glovers travel to Argyle next weekend with tickets prices as follows: 
Adults: £20
Young Person (18-21)/Senior: £15 
Junior (Under-18s): £7
 
Plymouth also offer a family ticket, where junior tickets purchased alongside an adult ticket are charged £5. However, for purchase of family tickets or ambulant disabled concessions please contact the Huish Park Ticket Office on 01935 847888.
 
For wheelchair bays, please contact Plymouth directly on 01752 907 700.
You can also buy tickets online by clicking here.
by Fungai Motezu

BASSETT CALLED UP FOR NORTHERN IRELAND UNDER-19 QUALIFIERS

The 18-year-old was part of an Under-19 training camp earlier this month and impressed manager Stephen Frail enough to make the final squad.
Bassett, who is currently on loan at Dorchester Town, will be part of the Northern Ireland side that will take on Slovakia, Macedonia and Poland between the 6th and 11th October as part of their qualifying campaign. 
After making his Under-19 debut at the start of September, the Glovers academy graduate is looking forward to being involved in his first competitive matches with Northern Ireland. 
“I’m very pleased to be involved with the squad, it should be a good experience to go to a different country and compete in the European Championship qualifiers.”
Everyone at Yeovil Town Football Club wishes Ollie all the best during his time with the Northern Ireland Under-19 national team.
by Fungai Motezu

NEW JUNIOR GLOVERS FAMILY AREA CABIN TO OPEN

The indoor space will provide pre-match entertainment and activities for our younger fans from 1pm on matchdays.
Situated on the corner of the Tamburino and Thatchers Gold stands, the Cabin will offer a fun build-up to the game with entertainment including a range of activities and competitions, Table Football and visits from the players before the game.
In the coming weeks the Cabin will also be fitted with the latest game consoles and a large screen TV so kids will be able to test their gaming skills on the latest FIFA 17 game which is released at the end of this month.
Speaking ahead of the launch Marilyn Cottle, from the Junior Glovers, believes the Cabin will be an enjoyable addition to the matchday experience at Huish Park.
 “This is going to be a great new addition to the ground for kids and their families on matchdays. It will offer a space come rain or shine where our younger supporters can enjoy the pre-match build-up surrounded by an array of activities.”
The Junior Glovers Cabin will be open from 1pm on Saturday and don’t forget there’s a £5 discount off matchday prices for the Cheltenham game when you buy your tickets online by clicking here.
by Fungai Motezu

SUPPORTERS GROUPS TO MEET WITH CHAIRMAN JOHN FRY

The main agenda will be focused around the potential creation of a Supporter Alliance Group which would be named the ‘Achieve By Unity’ Fans Partnership. 
Meetings would be held four times a year with agenda items being added through the affiliated supporter groups – allowing for topics and concerns of supporters to be raised.
The minutes of these meetings would be made public via ytfc.net. 
Amongst those invited to tonight’s initial meeting are the Green & White Supporters Club, the Disabled Supporters Association, the Junior Glovers, Bridport Glovers and the Cary Glovers, although the newly established Glovers Trust declined the opportunity to attend the meeting with the chairman. 
The meeting will take place at 7 o’clock this evening at Huish Park. 
by Fungai Motezu

WAY FULL OF PRAISE FOR GOAL SCORER EAVES

The 24-year-old, who signed from Bolton Wanderers ahead of the 2016/17 season, scored the only goal in the weekend’s 1-0 win at Orient to net his fourth goal of the season in all competitions. 
A meaningful presence all game, Way was complimentary about Eaves’ endeavours. 
“I thought his performance was the best that I’ve seen. I’ve had to work hard with Tom this week – not just Tom but every individual.
“We Kept it simple with Tom and told him to just to hold it up and be aggressive in the box when the ball comes in.  I felt he controlled all he could control when the ball came into him.”
The three points from the Matchroom Stadium ended a run of five games without a win for the Glovers, the result of relentless work according to the Gaffer. 
“We’ve not stopped, we’ve worked every day and I feel the players deserve a little bit of a break now and we look forward to the game on Saturday.”
Yeovil take on Cheltenham Town at Huish Park on Saturday 24th September, with tickets available to purchase online or via the Huish Park Ticket Office either in person or by calling 01935 847888. 
by Fungai Motezu

WAY: THE PLAYERS NEVER GAVE UP

Tom Eaves’ second half header was enough for the Glovers to come away from the Matchroom Stadium with all three points, with Town’s performance earning the plaudits of the home crowd who applauded the visiting players off the pitch. 
The win lifts Yeovil up to 21st in the League Two table, level on points with Cheltenham Town who visit Huish Park on Saturday. 
Speaking after the match, Way was delighted with the attitude demonstrated by his players. 
“I thought the performance was amazing; we talked to the lads about remaining cool and calm, I mentioned it this week. 
“I think we’re four points behind Leyton Orient – and this is a massive club by the way with big resources, a big budget – and the way the team adapted – we’ve been here enough times to know it’s a difficult place to come – we’re really pleased.
“I thought every player, substitutes and staff stood strong this week. Every member of staff, not just in the dressing room, you’re talking in the ticket office, you’re talking secretaries, you’re talking media – everyone’s just working so hard behind the scenes and they don’t give up. 
“That’s what I ask for as a manager, that never give up attitude and that’s what we’ve seen here. Fair play to the Orient fans because I thought it was a nice touch to stay behind and clap our players.”
The Glovers Gaffer was able to pick captain Darren Ward for the first time this season after recovering from a long-term injury with the 38-year-old completing a full 90 minutes against the O’s, impressing Way in the process.
“I thought he was fantastic,” he said. 
“The way the whole back four had to deal with the direct ball, not just once but every ball – which is not easy to play against – especially then when bring on (Jay) Simpson which shows the resources they’ve got.”
The result saw Town end a run of five games without a win, with Way still full of enthusiasm after the match.
“I love this job, I really do. I think it’s amazing. We’ve had a bad run of defeats but I’ve learned so much over these last five games. 
“From the moment I got off the bus I was with two supporters who said ‘we’re with you Darren.’ Then I went over to the supporters before the game and they said ‘we’re with you’. 
"Every supporter I am coming into contact with face-to-face is behind this football club and that makes me proud."
Yeovil next take on Cheltenham Town at Huish Park on Saturday 24th September with supporters able to save £5 when they purchase tickets online, meaning an adult ticket can cost as little as £15. 
Tickets for the match can be purchased online by clicking here, or by calling the Ticket Office Hotline on 01935 847888 or by visiting in person.
by Fungai Motezu

BUY YOUR CHELTENHAM TOWN TICKETS ONLINE AND SAVE £5!

Supporters who buy tickets in advance online will enjoy a £5 discount from the full matchday price – an additional saving of £2 from the normal online saving. 
  
The discount will see an adult ticket for the Thatchers Gold Terrace cost just £15, with seats available in both the Screwfix Stand and Tamburino Stand from just £19. 
  
For families, an adult and child can watch the game against Cheltenham for just £21, with a family consisting of two adults and two children being able to enjoy the fixture at Huish Park for £42. 
  
The offer applies to adult, senior and young person’s tickets only, with junior tickets remaining £6 around the ground. 
  
You can purchase your tickets online now and claim your saving by clicking here. 
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: LEYTON ORIENT v. YEOVIL TOWN

In a relatively quiet opening 45 minutes the Glovers created the most meaningful attempt on goal when Ryan Hedges forced Alex Cisak into a smart low save midway through the first half, as Town looked to control proceedings in London. 
The second half saw the game open up and after a spell of pressure, Town took the lead after 76 minutes when a brilliantly worked short corner saw Tom Eaves place a pinpoint header past the hapless Cisak. 
The goal had been coming for the visitors and Yeovil held out to claim victory, before being applauded off the pitch by all four sides of the stadium, highlighting the nature of the performance from the Somerset outfit.
Darren Way made one change to the side that started against Hartlepool United last weekend, with captain Darren Ward coming in for his first appearance of the season after recovering from the injury that ruled out him out for the end of the 2015/16 campaign. 
The 38-year-old instantly regained the captain’s armband and replaced Alex Lawless in the side, allowing Matt Butcher to switch to his preferred midfield position, with Nathan Smith shifting to left-back. 
In a first half that was slow to get going, the first shot of the game didn’t come until after the 10 minute mark when Gavin Massey’s tame effort was easily collected by Artur Krysiak, whilst at the other end Kevin Dawson’s cross found Nathan Smith at the back post, but his ball back across goal was claimed by Alex Cisak at his near post.
Former Glover Harry Cornick pulled a ball back from the by-line after 18 minutes, but Jordan Bowery was only able to blaze over the bar from the edge of the box when under pressure from Alex Lacey. 
Town looked dangerous on the break and Cisask was forced to concede a corner when Hedges’ cross was palmed behind with Tom Eaves lurking, and the Swansea loanee had Yeovil’s best chance of the half just before the half hour mark. 
The winger cut inside past Callum Kennedy before unleashing a shot from the edge of the box, with a slight deflection causing Cisak to dive low to his right to push away the danger. 
Eaves – who put the centre-back pairing of Tom Parkes and Yvan Erichot under endless pressure in the first half – thought he was through on goal after Hedges long ball, but referee Darren Deadman adjudged the Town striker of fouling Erichot in the process of running onto the ball. 
With the home crowd growing in frustration, Way’s side grew in confidence and Matt Dolan came within inches of connecting with Otis Khan’s in-swinging cross, as Yeovil ended the first half on top. 
The game opened up after the break and after both Kennedy and McCallum fired over the bar for the hosts, Yeovil began to cause havoc in the O’s final third. 
Dolan’s cross from wide on the left narrowly evaded Ward in the middle, before Eaves’ knock-down from a deep Smith cross was well cleared by Parkes as Khan poised to shoot first time. 
Smith proved to be the Glovers’ best outlet down the left wing and it was his initial skill – to skip past Pollock – and then cross which allowed Eaves to head at goal, only for Cisak to save with a little under 20 minutes remaining. 
The pressure continued to build on the hosts and after 76 minutes Town took the lead. 
A quickly taken short corner found Butcher close to the by-line inside the box, and the midfielder’s pinpoint cross found Eaves who headed past the Orient ‘keeper off the underside of the crossbar to send the travelling 272 Yeovil supporters into raptures. 
With the home crowd silenced the O’s looked to hit back immediately and Massey’s shot through a number of bodies had to be well saved by Krysiak, who gathered the ball at the second attempt. 
As the game entered the final 10 minutes Alex Lacey produced a stunning last ditch challenge to block Massey’s shot from the angle, as Orient pushed numbers forward in search of an equaliser. 
Way introduced Bevis Mugabi for Otis Khan in the final few minutes in a bid to see out the match, and despite a sustained spell of pressure in Yeovil’s final third Orient couldn’t find a way past a resilient Glovers defence. 
Substitute Jay Simpson had a shot brilliantly blocked by Smith with Dawson clearing McCallum’s effort on the follow up off the line, before Simpson fired a shot straight at Krysiak with the last action of the game, as Town claimed a deserved three points from their visit to the capital. 
Yeovil Town: Krysiak; Shephard, Lacey, Ward, Smith; Dawson, Butcher, Dolan; Khan (Mugabi 89’), Eaves, Hedges.
Bookings: Butcher 26’, Smith 35’, Dawson 56’.
Subs not used: Maddison, Ezewele, Lawless, Whitfield, Sowunmi, Campbell. 
Leyton Orient: Cisak; Hunt (Pollock 45’), Parkes, Erichot, Kennedy; Massey, Weir (Atangana 63’), Kelly, Cornick; McCallum, Bowery (Simpson 63’).
Bookings: Erichot 60’
Subs not used: Grainger, Palmer, Nnomo, Semedo. 
by Fungai Motezu

SKY BET ODDS FOR LEYTON ORIENT v. YEOVIL

The Glovers are 16/5 to get back to winning ways at Brisbane Road, with a draw priced at 5/2 by Sky Bet.

 

Despite results in recent weeks Darren Way will be buoyed by many of the performances this season.

 

A single goal won the last meeting between the two sides back in May, and Yeovil are 11/2 to come away from London with a single goal victory.

 

After scoring on his home debut against Portsmouth in the Checkatrade Trophy earlier this month, Izale McLeod is 7/1 to score the first goal and 9/4 to net anytime, whilst Tom Eaves is 8/1 and 5/2 respectively.

 

. Good luck and remember, all bets are subject to change.hereA full list of odds can be found by clicking

 

 

by Fungai Motezu

PREVIEW: LEYTON ORIENT v. YEOVIL TOWN

Darren Way’s side are back on the road for the first time in three weeks as they travel to Brisbane Road on Saturday, looking to end a run of five games without a win in league competition. 
Town lost out 2-1 at home to Hartlepool United last weekend at Huish Park courtesy of a stoppage time winner from Pools’ Nathan Thomas, after taking the lead mid-way through the first half courtesy of Matt Butcher’s first Football League goal. 
The Glovers have enjoyed a run of fixtures at home facing Blackpool, Portsmouth and Hartlepool in Somerset, but will make the relatively short journey to the capital this weekend. 
They will do so without attacker Ollie Bassett who joined Evo-Stik League Southern Premier outfit Dorchester Town on loan earlier this week, with no fresh injury concerns as Francois Zoko continues to recover from a hip flexor injury.
The O’s come into the match just outside the play-offs in eighth place after winning three of their opening seven matches. Their last win in League Two came against Morecambe a fortnight ago, claiming a 2-1 victory away from home.
In their last outing Orient picked up a point away to Carlisle as they were pegged back twice to eventually draw the game 2-2. Former Yeovil loanee Harry Cornick netted for the visitors and is likely to line-up against his former club on Saturday.
Head-to-head
Saturday’s match will be the 26th competitive meeting between the two sides with Orient slightly edging the head-to-head record with 10 wins compared to Yeovil’s eight. 
The Glovers picked up a point at Brisbane Road last season with Zoko’s strike being cancelled out by a Jobi McAnuff wonder goal late on, before an 87th minute winner from Ollie Palmer won the return fixture for the O’s. 
Town’s last win against Orient came in January 2014 in the FA Cup Third Round at Huish Park when James Hayter (x2), Joel Grant and Kieffer Moore were all on target for the hosts in a 4-0 win, with the Glovers’ last league victory against Leyton Orient coming the season before with Paddy Madden (x2) and James Hayter sealing a 3-0 win. 
Referee
Darren Deadman from Cambridgeshire will take charge of the match in London. 
Mr Deadman was the man in the middle for two of Town’s fixtures last season, overseeing the 0-0 draw against Portsmouth at Fratton Park – awarding just one booking in the process – and the 1-0 home loss to Wycombe, in which he bizarrely booked Town midfielder Ben Tozer after failing to award either a penalty or booking Luke O’Nien for simulation after a challenge from ‘keeper Chris Weale. 
Having officiated five matches this season, Mr Deadman has awarded 17 yellow cards but is yet to brandish a single red card.
He will be assisted by Andrew Aylott (Bedfordshire) and Stephen Finch (Suffolk) with Nigel Lugg (Surrey) taking on the role of fourth official. 
Coverage
Minute-by-minute updates will be provided on our official Twitter account which can be found here, with additional updates available via our official Facebook page. 
If you’re unable to attend the game a full match report will follow on ytfc.net at full-time with post-match reaction from manager Darren Way and a member of the playing staff following soon after.
by Fungai Motezu

YEOVIL TOWN WELCOME GLOVERS TRUST BOARD

The 10 board members were elected at the Trust’s first Annual General Meeting and will now represent just under 300 members who have signed up to the group.

 

Chairman John Fry looks forward to welcoming the Trust – along with other supporters’ groups – to Huish Park next Tuesday for a meeting to discuss their affiliation with the Club in the future. 

by Fungai Motezu

A CLOSE SHAVE! DARREN WAY HELPS WITH FUNDRAISING

The Gaffer spent time before training at Nuffield Gym in Yeovil and was joined by local barber Jon Vance to shave the head of Gina Masters who is doing so to raise money for the charity. 
Gina will be taking part in the Hospice’s Machu Picchu trek in April 2017 where the charity will be involved with a two-day community project near Cusco before continuing along the remote Salkantay trail. 
Donations for Gina’s trek (and for shaving her head!) can be made via her fundraising page by clicking here. 
Everyone at Yeovil Town wishes Gina all the best with her fundraising efforts and hopes she likes her new haircut courtesy of the manager!
by Fungai Motezu

LOAN WATCH: BASSETT MAKES DORCHESTER DEBUT

The Northern Ireland Under-19 international only joined the Magpies on Tuesday, but went straight into Mark Jermyn’s squad for the trip to North Somerset.

 

minute at the Special Effects Stadium.thLeading 3-0 thanks to goals from Nathan Walker (x2) and Mario Mateus, Bassett was introduced in the 79

 

The 18-year-old made an immediate impact providing the cross for Walker to complete his hat-trick, allowing Bassett to start his spell at Dorchester in impressive fashion.

 

The attacker will now be part of the Dorchester side to take on St. Neots Town at the Avenue next Saturday after ending a run of four games without a win with the help of the Yeovil Town loanee. 

by Fungai Motezu

CLUB OFFICIAL RESPONSE TO ‘WHOLE GAME SOLUTON’ PROPOSALS

The proposals were first put forward to members of the Football League in June during a meeting of all EFL members, with subsequent meetings between the Yeovil Town FC board of directors culminating in the following conclusions.

Fans from lower league Clubs already see the distribution of funds within the football pyramid to be vastly unequal, therefore any ‘Whole Game Solution’ proposal must address this issue.

It is a fact that Clubs operating in the Premier League and Championship are getting richer and Clubs further down the pyramid, such as Yeovil, are getting poorer each season. With this in mind, change is required, but we do not need a ‘Whole Game Solution’ that covers over this fact. We should cherish and protect the game at the lower end of the pyramid, otherwise good Clubs are going to forced back into semi-professional football. Is that the "End Game" that is being proposed through the ‘Whole Game Solution’ proposals?

Unfortunately, the Club’s directors already see this as another proposal to further benefit the Premier League and Championship Clubs and are finding it extremely difficult to see any advantages for Clubs in the lower leagues such as Yeovil. 

Realistically, it will be financial solutions that will be backed by the Clubs operating in the EFL; this is what happened with the EFL Trophy vote at the Conference in Portugal this summer – the proposals were sold to Clubs on financial rewards and not principles.

However, supporters have since seen the situation differently and are now voting with their feet by boycotting fixtures. This is bad PR for the EFL, for our Clubs and for our sponsors. 

Is this what is going to happen with the ‘Whole Game Solution’ proposals? We have taken that in consideration in our reply to the EFL ‘Whole Game Solution’ questionnaire, replying to the main proposals as follows:

If additional teams were to be introduced to the EFL, where do you believe the additional teams should come from?

With the board of directors strongly against the feared eventual introduction of Premier League ‘B teams’ or Academy sides, Yeovil Town FC feels additional teams should therefore come from the National League and the lower leagues. 

Where do you believe the additional teams should not come from?

As outlined above, Yeovil Town FC strongly feels any additional Clubs should not be introduced from either Scotland or the Premier League.

Do you think the EFL should consider regionalisation of the bottom two divisions? 

After discussion amongst the board of directors, the Club feels regionalisation could be beneficial for both supporters and individual Clubs, in terms of expenditure and the reduction of travelling time to long distance matches, with special focus on mid-week fixtures. With fixtures more likely to be amongst local teams, this would produce bigger gates and receipts. 

Would you prefer that Clubs in League One, League Two and League Three (if introduced) played through a winter break? 


The Club would support the introduction of a winter break, highlighting the quantity of matches small squads across the lower divisions have to contend with. 

What number of teams should compete per division?

Yeovil Town FC would like to see the regionalisation of divisions retaining the current 24 team format. 

The Club is continuing to monitor and absorb the views of supporters submitted via the online poll, with the final results on Monday 19th September being taken into consideration when the Club, along with the other members of the EFL, meet at the end of September to continue discussions regarding the ‘Whole Game Solution’. We welcome your consultation process and believe that changes, under the right circumstances, are essential for lower league Clubs to not only survive, but to progress.

by Fungai Motezu

YEOVIL TOWN PRESENTS AN EVENING WITH RAY PARLOUR

The event will include entertainment from compere and comedian Bob Webb, a three-course meal and a quality sports memorabilia auction. 
Parlour, who won the Premier League three times and the FA Cup four times with Arsenal, will also be sharing experiences from his career. 
Tickets cost £40 per person with a table of 10 available for £380. 
With four tables from a maximum of 12 already sold, buy now to avoid disappointment by calling the Club on 01935 847872. 
by Fungai Motezu

ACADEMY GRADUATE BASSETT HEADS OUT ON LOAN

The 18-year-old has been part of the Glovers’ matchday squad on six occasions this season but is yet to make an appearance.
Bassett picked up his first Northern Ireland Under-19 caps earlier this month, featuring in two training camp matches against a Wolves Development side and a Stoke City Development side.
The attacker will now link up with former Yeovil fans’ favourite Nick Crittenden, who is assistant player/manager for the Magpies.
After making his debut in September last year, Bassett became the youngest player to represent Yeovil Town in the Football League, taking to the field against Crawley Town aged just 17 years, 6 months and four days old.
Town manager Darren Way believes the loan move is the right one for Bassett to continue his development. 
He said: “Dorchester is a good Football Club that we trust and has served us well over the years, plus we know Nick Crittenden and the staff there very well. 
“It’s a local move which means we’ll be able to watch his games, plus Ollie will train with us daily so we can still closely monitor his development.”
Everyone at Yeovil Town Football Club wishes Ollie all the best during his time at The Avenue. 
by Fungai Motezu

TICKETS NOW ON SALE FOR TOWN’S TRIP TO CAMBRIDGE UNITED

The Glovers’ Ticket Office hotline can be contacted on 01935 847888 or tickets can be purchased in person or online by clicking here.
Prices are as follows for the Sky Bet League Two fixture:
Adults: £20
Concessions (64+, Student NUS, 18-21’s): £15
Under-18’s: £10
Under-5’s: free of charge
All tickets will undergo a matchday surcharge of £2, whilst tickets for wheelchair users cost £15, with carers able to enter free of charge. 
However, for wheelchair tickets please contact Cambridge United directly on 01223 566500.
Supporters planning on making the journey to the Cambs Glass Stadium can read a detailed visitors’ guide supplied by Cambridge Fans United supporters group by clicking here.
They also offer commentary for visually impaired fans, but booking beforehand is needed by contacting Nick Parker on 07929 589925 or nick.parker56@googlemail.com.
We look forward to seeing you at Cambridge!
by Fungai Motezu

CLUB COMMENT AND POLL FOR EFL WHOLE GAME SOLUTION PROPOSAL

After discussion amongst the board of directors, Yeovil Town FC remains suspicious regarding the proposed changes put forward by the EFL in its ‘Whole Game Solution’. 

Chairman John Fry attended the EFL conference in Portugal in June where the proposed changes were outlined, and has since collected the thoughts and opinions of the Club’s board of directors ahead of the next EFL Club Meeting on the 22nd September. 
The main changes outlined included the expansion of the EFL to four divisions; the reformation of the FA Cup to include mid-week fixtures (primarily in rounds four and five); the introduction of a winter break and the potential regionalisation of the bottom two leagues in the EFL. 
The Club currently believes there is a lack of detailed information regarding the proposed changes to the structure and format of the EFL, although feels the changes outlined would be primarily beneficial for clubs operating in the Premier League and not the EFL – the needs of Yeovil Town FC are substantially different to that of teams in the top division of the professional game in England. 
Yeovil Town FC would like to canvas the opinion of the Club’s supporters who can do so via completing a poll by clicking here. Fans have until Monday 19th September to share their views, which will be taken into consideration when the Club puts forward its final views to the EFL later in September. 

by Fungai Motezu

TOWN’S SOMERSET PREMIER CUP MATCH RE-ARRANGED

Originally due to take place on Wednesday 28th September, the match will now take place on Wednesday 5th October with the same 7.45pm kick-off.
The cup clash will see Yeovil Firsts take on Clevedon at Huish Park. 
Ticket prices and more matchday information will follow in due course.
by Fungai Motezu

PURCHASE TICKETS FOR LEYTON ORIENT ONLINE

As well as being available via the Ticket Office hotline (01935 847888) and for purchase in person, tickets for the League Two fixture can be bought online by clicking here.
 
The prices for Town’s trip to Brisbane Road are as follows: 
Adults: £22
Over-65s/Students: £14 
Junior (Under-18s): £5
 
However, for those wanting ambulant disabled, or the military and unemployment concessions, please contact the ticket office on 01935 847888.
 
For supporters needing wheelchair bays, please contact Leyton Orient directly on 0871 310 1883.
 
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: YEOVIL v. HARTLEPOOL UNITED

The Glovers peppered the Pools’ goal in the opening 45 minutes but were thwarted by some dogged defending and Trevor Carson in the visiting goal. 
Yeovil did take the lead just before the hour mark through Matt Butcher before Thomas netted the first of his two goals after a blistering counter-attack from a Glovers’ corner. 
With the game heading for a draw, the visitors stole all three points when Thomas curled an effort into bottom corner past Artur Krysiak after 92 minutes.
Darren Way brought back in central defender Alex Lacey – who was passed fit to play with a cast on his left arm after breaking a bone against Luton last month – awarding the 23-year-old the captaincy instead of Ryan Dickson who missed out altogether through injury.
Ryan Hedges returned on the right wing from Wales Under-21 international duty, with Izale McLeod dropping to the bench. 
Looking to get a positive result in their third match in a row at Huish Park, the Glovers immediately looked to get on the front foot and had the ball in the net after four minutes.
Nathan Smith’s challenge on visiting ‘keeper Trevor Carson from Matt Dolan’s corner ended with the ball in the net, but referee Charles Breakspear adjudged Smith to have fouled Carson. 
That was as good as it got in terms of goalmouth action in the opening 20 minutes, but Yeovil found their attacking feet midway through the first half and peppered the Hartlepool goal with shots on goal. 
Kevin Dawson and Hedges both had goal-bound efforts blocked inside the box, before Tom Eaves had a penalty appeal waved away after going down under challenge close to the by-line.
In a rare foray into Yeovil’s half Craig Hignett’s side almost took the lead when Nathan Thomas’ snapshot from the edge of the box flashed past Artur Krysiak’s post, but that was as good as it got for the visitors as they had to cling on to keep the score at deadlock. 
A moment of individual brilliance just past the half-hour mark saw Hedges dribble from the halfway line into the Pools’ box, only for the wideman’s low shot to be saved well by the legs of Carson. 
With ten minutes of the first half remaining the Glovers enjoyed sustained spell of pressure in the Hartlepool final third, with a series of corners resulting in Smith finding the side-netting, and Eaves and Khan both having shots deflected wide. 
The Glovers continued to press after the break but it the visitors who drew the first save of the second half, as Thomas’ effort from just inside the box was pushed behind for a corner by Krysiak. 
After a frustrating first half in terms of failing to find a way past Carson in the visiting goal, Town triumphed with their first meaningful attempt on target in the second period. 
Hartlepool failed to properly clear Dolan’s corner and after a neat turn, Matt Butcher fired past a diving Carson to score his first ever senior goal and his first goal in a Yeovil shirt. 
Darren Way’s side continued to press and were dealt a sucker punch just ten minutes after taking the lead when from another Yeovil corner, Carson claimed and launched a quick fire counter-attack with his long ball finding Thomas who raced through and narrowly squeezed an effort under the sprawling Krysiak, levelling the scores against the run of play. 
Town introduced both Izale McLeod and Tahvon Campbell after 76 minutes in place of Tom Eaves and Otis Khan, before Ben Whitfield took to the field in place of Lawless with a little under ten minutes remaining. 
Perhaps feeling unfortunate to only be drawing the match, Yeovil continued to search for a winner late on, but were dealt a late blow when Thomas curled an effort past the Yeovil stopper to steal all three points and claim an unlikely victory. 
Yeovil Town: Krysiak; Shephard, Lacey, Smith, Butcher; Dawson, Lawless (Whitfield 84’), Dolan; Khan (Campbell 76’), Eaves (McLeod 76’), Hedges.
Bookings: Smith 75’. 
Subs not used: Maddison, Mugabi, Sowunmi, Copp. 
Hartlepool United: Carson; Nsiala, Harrison, Jones (Alessandra 45’); Magnay, Hawkins (Deverdics 86’), Featherstone, Laurent, Donnelly; Thomas, Amond (Fewster 77’). 
Bookings: Carson 40’, Laurent 83’, Deverdics 90’.
Subs not used: Bartlett, Paynter, Richards, Heardman. 
by Fungai Motezu

PREVIEW: YEOVIL TOWN v. HARTLEPOOL UNITED

After travelling over 1,500 miles in August, Darren Way’s side prepare for the last of three home games in a row this Saturday as they take on Hartlepool United in Sky Bet League Two.

 

The Glovers come into the match after a disappointing 3-0 defeat at the hands of Blackpool last weekend, after winning their opening Checkatrade Trophy fixture 4-3 against Portsmouth a week-and-a-half ago.

 

Town are however boosted by the return from international duty of Ryan Hedges (Wales Under-21s) and Ollie Bassett (Northern Ireland Under-19s) who will be available for selection, whislt Darren Ward and Alex Lacey both returned to training this week after spells on the sidelines.

 

Pools come into the match at Huish Park on the back of a 6-1 defeat inflicted by Stevenage last Saturday, a result which leaves Craig Hignett’s side without a win in the last five matches in all competitions.

 

Just two points separates the two sides coming into the match with Hartlepool’s only win so far this season coming in matchday three when Pools travelled to Exeter City.

 

 

Head-to-head

occasion both sides have come together in a competitive meeting, with the visitors edging the head-to-head with eight victories to the Glovers’ six wins.thSaturday’s game will only be the 18

 

Pools claimed all three points on both occasions last season by the same 2-1 margin, with Ryan Bird’s strike at home cancelled out by Scott Fenwick and Brad Walker strikes whilst a controversial penalty converted by Billy Paynter at Victoria Park helped Pools see off 10-man Yeovil after Nathan Smith received a red card with a little over 10 minutes remaining.

 

However, Yeovil do claim the highest ever margin of victory having beaten Hartlepool 4-0 in March 2010 thanks to strikes from Gavin Tomlin (penalty), Gavin Williams, Dean Bowditch and an own goal.

 


Referee
Charles Breakspear from Surrey takes charge of Saturday’s fixture at Huish Park in what will be just his fourth ever match officiating a game involving the Glovers.

 

Mr Breakspear last took charge of a Town match in April this year during the 2015/16 campaign, overseeing the 1-1 draw with Northampton Town at Huish Park.

 

Five yellow cards were awarded during the match with three of them coming in the final six minutes of the game.

 

The referee’s most notable match in charge of a Town fixture came during the 2014/15 campaign when Yeovil hosted Walsall at Huish Park.

 

Both teams were awarded penalties – although neither were converted – and six yellow cards were given out. Most notably, no action was taken against the Saddlers’ player Tom Bradshaw after his challenge saw Town’s Stephen Kingsley stretchered off with a fractured cheekbone.

 

 

Coverage
Minute-by-minute updates will be provided by our official Twitter account, with updates also available via our official Facebook page.  

   

A full match report will follow shortly after full-time, as well as post-match video reaction from Darren Way and a member of the playing staff. 

by Fungai Motezu

WIN TOWN £100 WHEN A TRADESPERSON JOINS CHECKATRADE

Checkatrade have launched the initiative for all League One and League Two clubs participating in this season’s Checkatrade Trophy.

 

The sign-up criteria are as follows:

 

Tradespeople can be nominated or tradespeople can nominate themselves, by the following channels:

Calling Checkatrade’s dedicated membership team: 0345 241 1397

www.checkatrade.com/trophySigning up online at:

Using #checkatrade100

 

The Glovers will then receive £100 from Checkatrade!

by Fungai Motezu

BUY TICKETS ONLINE FOR LEYTON ORIENT AND PLYMOUTH ARGYLE

As well as being available via the Ticket Office hotline (01935 847888) and for purchase in person, tickets for both League Two fixtures can be bought online by clicking here.

 

Adults: £22
September are as follows:
thThe prices for Town’s trip to Brisbane Road on Saturday 17

Junior (Under-18s): £5
Over-65s/Students: £14

 

However, for those wanting Ambulant Disabled, or the Military and Unemployment Concessions, please contact the ticket office on 01935 847888.

 

For supporters needing wheelchair bays, please contact Leyton Orient directly on 0871 310 1883.

 

Adults: £20
October with tickets prices as follows:
stThe Glovers travel to Plymouth on Saturday 1

Junior (Under-18s): £7
Young Person (18-21)/Senior: £15

 

Plymouth Argyle also offer a family ticket, where junior tickets purchased alongside an adult ticket are charged £5. However, for purchase of family tickets or Ambulant Disabled concessions please contact the Huish Park Ticket Office on 01935 847888.

 

For wheelchair bays, please contact Plymouth directly on 01752 907 700.

by Fungai Motezu

OFFICIALS NAMED FOR GLOVERS MATCH AGAINST HARTLEPOOL UNITED

Referee Charles Breakspear will take charge of Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two fixture between the Glovers and Hartlepool United at Huish Park.

 

Mr Breakspear has been involved in seven matches so far this season awarding 34 yellow cards and two red cards.

 

Ravel Cheosiaua and Kevin Morris will be linesmen on the day with Colin Lymer acting as fourth official. 

by Fungai Motezu

FREE COMMUNITY FACILITIES TURNED DOWN BY SSDC

Plans put forward to South Somerset District Council by Yeovil Town Holdings, Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust and Yeovil Town Football Club have been refused by a narrow margin.
The application was discussed at SSDC’s Area South meeting on Wednesday 7th September, where the opportunity of a substantial investment which would benefit the local community without expense to the public purse was turned down.
The plans, aimed at providing community facilities at the site in Lufton on the outskirts of Yeovil, included two full-sized football pitches, an option for a cricket pitch, a modest pavilion to accommodate four changing rooms and necessary changes for access and associated car parking.
David Bell, planning agent for the application, said:
“All associated are obviously going to be disappointed after the proposal was narrowly defeated in the council chamber. 
“The application was recommended for a grant of permission by the officers, but after a lengthy two-hour meeting with two adjournments councillors narrowly voted to refuse the application.
“The reasons for refusal were not clear in the council chamber and therefore I will wait for written confirmation before commenting further or considering possible further action.”
by Fungai Motezu

ONLINE SAVING FOR HARTLEPOOL MATCH AT HUISH PARK

Tickets remain on sale for Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two fixture against Hartlepool United at Huish Park. 
Fans can purchase tickets online by clicking here to gain a saving of £3 from the usual matchday prices. 
Tickets can be purchased via the Ticket Office hotline (01935 847888) or in person in the lead up to kick-off on Saturday, although there will be a £2 surcharge on matchday so fans are urged to buy their tickets in advance. 
by Fungai Motezu

HEDGES COMPLETES STINT WITH WALES UNDER-21 SQUAD

Ryan Hedges will be back in contention for Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two clash against Hartlepool United having returned from international duty. 
The Swansea City loanee has been absent with the Wales Under-21 squad for their two Euro 2017 qualifiers against Denmark and Luxembourg in Wrexham and Bangor respectively.
Hedges, who missed last Tuesday’s Checkatrade Trophy match against Portsmouth and Saturday’s league fixture with Blackpool, played 90 minutes in the 4-0 defeat to Denmark last Friday and 45 minutes in the 1-1 draw with Luxembourg on Tuesday night. 
The 21-year-old will return to Huish Park on Thursday alongside Ollie Bassett, who is also returning from international duty, with both available for selection on Saturday.  
by Fungai Motezu

BASSETT RETURNS AFTER NORTHERN IRELAND UNDER-19 CAMP

Yeovil Town attacker Ollie Bassett will return to Huish Park on Thursday after a three-day training camp with the Northern Ireland Under-19 squad. 
Based at Lilleshall National Sports and Conferencing Centre in Shropshire, Bassett was part of the squad that took on a Wolverhampton Wanderers development squad and a Stoke City development squad on Monday and Tuesday respectively. 
The 18-year-old played 30 minutes in the 1-1 draw with Wolves before completing 90 minutes during the 1-0 win over Stoke. 
Under-19 manager Stephen Craigan used the camp as an opportunity to cast an eye over a number of new players – including Bassett – ahead of three European Under-19 Championship qualifiers in October. 
After making his Northern Ireland Under-19 debut, Bassett was delighted to have been part of the squad.
He said: “It was a good experience and it’s great to get my first call-up. They were a good group of lads so it was great to go away and get my first taste of international football. 
“It was good to get some game time on the international scene.”
by Fungai Motezu

HUISH PARK TO HOST ST MARGARET’S HOSPICE CHARITY WALK

Yeovil Town Football Club are to help St Margaret’s Hospice raise some of the £7.5 million needed to operate each year by hosting the charity’s Great Somerset Night Walk. 
Held on Saturday 17th September, the nine-mile walk will follow a circular route around the town, starting and finishing at Huish Park.
The walk will take in the night time views over Somerset from Ham Hill, with refreshments available from the Prince of Wales pub. 
St. Margaret’s Hospice is a charity and needs to raise £7.5million every year to deliver their care. Therefore, the hospice is hugely reliant on the generosity of the Somerset community, something Yeovil Town Football Club is pleased to help with.
For those wishing to take part, registration will open at 7pm with the walk starting at 8pm taking around 3-4 hours to complete (including stoppage for refreshments).
Entry is £15 for adults and £10 for children (aged 6-16) and includes a t-shirt, medal and goody bag. Participants will also be able to personalise their t-shirts with florescent pens and stickers, ensuring they stand out as they wander into the night.
St. Margaret’s Events Manager, Richard Wallace, said: “The Great Somerset Walk has been a brilliant and well-supported event for many years, and we are really excited to be launching The Great Somerset Night Walk to build on this success. We hope that Somerset will enjoy the new challenge and look forward to the beautiful night time views across Somerset from Ham Hill.
“St. Margaret’s cares for over 3,200 people facing a life-limiting illness across Somerset each year and it is thanks to all of our amazing supporters who attend hospice events that we are able to continue to do so.”
by Fungai Motezu

PLANNING APPLICATION TO BE HEARD ON WEDNESDAY

Yeovil Town Football Club, Yeovil Town Holdings and the Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust will on Wednesday find out whether plans for community football pitches and a cricket pitch on the outskirts of Yeovil will be approved. 
Plans were submitted on the 1st June 2015 to South Somerset District Council to change the 12.5 acre site, adjacent to Lufton College, from agricultural use to community playing fields and recreational use. 
The application will be decided at SSDC’s Area South meeting on Wednesday 7th September – the plans are recommended for approval subject to planning conditions, including a desk-based assessment and a field evaluation to assess the potential for archaeological remains.
The plans include two full-sized football pitches, an option for a cricket pitch, a building to accommodate four changing rooms, the necessary changes for access and associated car parking.
After a historic Olympic Games in Rio for Team GB, it’s hoped the plans will enable the next generation from Yeovil and the surrounding area to fulfil their potential in not just football, but a number of sports.
by Fungai Motezu

INTERNATIONAL UPDATE: RYAN HEDGES

Yeovil Town currently have one player away on international duty, with Ryan Hedges away from Huish Park with the Wales Under-21 squad.
The Swansea City loanee was called up to Geraint Williams’ squad for last Friday’s match against Denmark and Tuesday’s clash against Luxembourg – both matches are Euro 2017 qualifiers. 
Hedges played 90 minutes for Wales in Friday’s disappointing 4-0 defeat at the hands of Denmark, and will be in-line to repeat the feat in Bangor on Tuesday. 
Wales are currently in third place in Group 5, seven points behind group leaders Denmark and 10 points ahead of fifth placed Luxembourg. 
Hedges has started all but one of Wales’ qualifying matches thus far. 
by Fungai Motezu

WAY: WE WON’T USE EXCUSES

Yeovil Town manager Darren Way is looking forward to a week on the training field ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet League Two clash against Hartlepool United at Huish Park. 
The Glovers lost 3-0 at the hands of Blackpool last weekend after a month that saw the squad accumulate over 1,500 miles of travelling and complete eight games. 
Despite a frantic August, the Gaffer was reluctant to use it as a reason for Town’s defeat last Saturday.
He said: “It’s important we don’t use any excuses, I’m certainly not going to use any – I never have done and never will. I will always own up if I’ve made mistakes. 
“At times (against Blackpool) it was too easy to play the ball to Tom Eaves or Izale McLeod, but we didn’t hold it up, we rushed passes and we didn’t take responsibility.”
The week leading up to the match against Hartlepool this coming Saturday represents the first time Way and his coaching staff will benefit from a full-week on the training ground without the complication of a mid-week match or journey in preparation for a fixture.
Speaking after the match against the Seasiders, Way was eager to put things right in training this week.
“It’s important we do get on the training ground; quickly and early. I’m responsible as manager if the team play like they did against Blackpool, I have to stand up and be counted for.
“One thing I will do as manager of this Football Club is stand up and be counter for.”
After a mixed August which saw the Glovers pick up three points on the opening day, knock-out League One outfit Walsall in the EFL Cup and face Everton in Round Two of the same competition, Way is determined to get back to winning ways in Sky Bet League Two.
“It’s only early on, and the players have a chance to respond,” he said.
“I wanted to see that (against Blackpool) but it never happened. Now we face Hartlepool and we’ve got to make sure we play with belief, hunger and desire – that’s how my teams play. 
“We’ll do everything we can in training to make sure we’re organised and come back fighting.”
Tickets for Saturday’s match against Pools are available to purchase online by clicking here, or you can call the Ticket Office on 01935 847888.
by Fungai Motezu

REPORT: YEOVIL TOWN V BLACKPOOL

Yeovil Town suffered a 3-0 defeat at home to Blackpool in Sky Bet League Two in torrential conditions at Huish Park.
 

After a first half harnessed in terms of entertainment by the pouring rain, the visitors took the lead just before the hour mark courtesy of a Colin Daniel strike from 30 yards.

 

The Seasiders missed a penalty inside the final ten minutes’ courtesy of Armand Gnanduillet but doubled their lead after 83 minutes thanks to a second from Daniel.

 

With Yeovil pressing late on the visitors added a third through Gnanduillet, as Town failed to build on Tuesday’s victory in the Checkatrade Trophy.

 

Darren Way made two changes to the side that won 4-3 against Portsmouth in the Checkatrade Trophy in mid-week, re-introducing Kevin Dawson and captain Ryan Dickson in place of Bevis Mugabi (suspended) and Ben Whitfield who dropped to the bench.

 

With torrential rain and high winds making for far from ideal conditions for football, both sides struggled to gather momentum in the opening exchanges, as the ball whizzed off of the Huish Park surface.

 

The Glovers enjoyed a succession of corners inside the opening 10 minutes but the imperious Blackpool striker Armand Gnanduillet was on hand in his own box to clear the danger on both occasions.

 

As the rain continued to pour, Otis Khan saw an effort from 20 yards fly over Sam Slocombe’s goal whilst at the other end Alex Lawless’ clearance cannoned off of a Seasiders player and enabled Brad Potts to stab at goal, which dribbled inches wide from what would’ve been a fortuitous opener for Gary Bowyer’s side.

 

Just before the half hour mark Gnanduillet dragged an effort horribly wide from inside the box whilst Izale McLeod – who scored on his home debut in midweek – slipped at the crucial moment 20 yards from goal as he pulled the trigger.

 

After the break, and donning less saturated shirts than they ended the first half in, Darren Way’s side started on the front foot.

 

Khan’s dangerous free-kick from midway inside the Blackpool half narrowly evaded both Eaves and Butcher in the six-yard box, as Slocombe remained rooted to the spot.

 

The visitors responded with a chance of their own just before the hour mark when Colin Daniel’s effort was tipped round the post by Artur Krysiak after the ball picked up pace off the wet surface, before Brad Potts somehow headed an effort wide of goal from six yards.

 

But Gary Bowyer’s side didn’t have to wait long to take the lead as on 59 minutes Daniel gave the visitors the lead with an unstoppable effort from 30 yards which gave Krysiak no chance.

 

Darren Way immediately introduced Tahvon Campbell in place of Khan before Ben Whitfield – who made his debut on Tuesday night –  took to the field in place of Dawson in the Glovers midfield.

 

As the rain finally eased in Somerset, Yeovil started to test Slocombe in a bid to try and get back into the match. 

Matt Dolan’s free-kick from 25 yards was tipped out for a corner by the Blackpool stopper before Liam Shephard curled an effort over the bar from the resulting corner.

 

The Glovers continued to press for an equaliser and engineered their best chance of the match with 77 minutes on the clock after fantastic build-up play.

Whitfield drove from the halfway line before finding McLeod on the edge of the box, with the striker demonstrating excellent awareness to lay the ball off to the oncoming Dolan whose driven effort from the edge of the box was well gathered by Slocombe.

 

With the hosts pressing for an equaliser Blackpool were awarded a penalty inside the final ten minutes when Shephard was adjudged to have felled Bright Osayi-Samuel, but Gnanduillet blasted an effort from 12 yards over Krysiak’s goal to keep the score at 1-0.

 

Despite the reprieve the Glovers did fall further behind just minutes later when Daniel notched his second of the match with a cool finish after 83 minutes, as the game seemingly slipped away from Yeovil.

 

Piling numbers forward in search of a way back into the match, Blackpool executed a counter-attack four minutes later which resulted in Gnanduillet tapping in an effort from Potts’ low cross.

 

The rain finally stopped at Huish Park as the referee called time on a disappointing afternoon for Darren Way’s side, who will look to bounce back at home again next weekend when they take on Hartlepool United.

 

Yeovil Town: Krysiak; Shephard, Butcher, Smith, Dickson; Dawson (Whitfield 71’), Lawless, Dolan; Khan (Campbell 61’), McLeod, Eaves.

Bookings: Shephard 82’.

Subs not used: Maddison, Sowunmi, Lea, Bassett, Copp.

 

Blackpool: Slocombe; Mellor, Robertson, Aldred, Taylor; Potts (Yeates 89’), McAllister, Pugh, Daniel; Vassell (Osayi-Samuel 62’), Gnanduillet.

Bookings: Vassell 45’, Daniel 80’, Robertson 90’.

Subs not used: Aimson, Cameron, Nolan, Cain, Lyness.

by Fungai Motezu

PLANS IN PLACE TO REDUCE THORNE LANE ROADWORKS CONGESTION

After discussions with Wyatt Homes, plans have been put in place to reduce congestion along Thorne Lane close to Huish Park where there is currently ongoing roadworks ahead of today’s match against Blackpool. 
Traffic lights are in operation at the junction where Thorne Lane meets Western Avenue for roadworks associated with the nearby housing estate development. 
Although supporters are urged to allow extra time to travel Huish Park prior to kick-off, Wyatt Homes have agreed to put a member of staff in charge of the traffic lights at full-time to manage the flow of traffic. 
Yeovil Town are also in ongoing discussion with Wyatt Homes and its contractors regarding the removal of the roadworks on matchdays in the future. 
by Fungai Motezu

PREVIEW: YEOVIL TOWN v. BLACKPOOL

After playing eight games in August, Darren Way’s side prepare for their first game in September as they take on Blackpool at Huish Park in Sky Bet League Two.

 

The Glovers come into the match off the back of an impressive 4-3 victory against Portsmouth in the Checkatrade Trophy, in a game which saw Town net all four goals in the opening 45 minutes.

 

Izale McLeod scored on his home debut against his former club whilst Tom Eaves (x2) and Bevis Mugabi rounded off the scoring.

 

The Seasiders are also coming into the fixture after a win, with a second half brace from Kyle Vassell enough to see off Cheltenham 2-1 in the Checkatrade Trophy.

 

Getting back to winning ways in League Two will be paramount for both teams with Yeovil looking to pick up points for the first time in four games whilst Blackpool are without a win in the last four matches.

 

    
Coming into the fixture just a single point separates the two sides after five games of the 2016/17 season.

Something has to give this Saturday, with both teams winning three of the previous eight meetings between the two sides, with the two other matches ending in draws.
Head-to-head

 

Most recently, the Glovers have come out on top having won both of the league fixtures in the Championship during the 2013/14 season.

 

Everton loanee John Lundstram scored the only goal in a 1-0 win at Huish Park at the start of December, before James Hayter (penalty) and Tom Lawrence netted for Town in a 2-1 win at Bloomfield Road, with Elliot Grandin scoring for the hosts.

 

Prior to that, Blackpool’s last victory against the Glovers came with great reward. The Seasiders saw off Russel Slade’s side 2-0 in the League One play-off final in 2007 thanks to strikes from Robbie Williams and Keigan Parker to earn a place in the Championship.

 

The early 2000’s were largely dominated by the Lancashire Club who won two and drew the other two fixtures between 2005 – 2007, with the then non-league Yeovil’s only previous win against ‘Pool coming in December 2000 in the FA Cup Second Round.

 

time (another record).th time, reaching the Third Round for a 13thNick Crittenden’s goal was enough for the Glovers to secure a 1-0 win and knock-out a Football League club for a record 20

 


Graham Horwood takes charge of Saturday’s match having not officiated a match since the opening game of the season. Mr Horwood was in charge of the 1-1 draw between Cambridge and Barnet, issuing just the one yellow card.
Referee

 

After a break throughout August, Horwood will officiate his first Yeovil match since August 2014 when the Glovers lost 3-0 at home to Doncaster Rovers, in a match which saw three players go into the referee’s notebook.

A full match report will follow shortly after full-time, as well as post-match video reaction from Darren Way and a member of the playing staff.

  

Minute-by-minute updates will be provided by our official Twitter account, with updates also available via our official Facebook page. 

Coverage

 

by Fungai Motezu

Glovers open new Co-op shop in Yeovil

Manager Darren Way and members of the first team squad have been along to open a new Co-op store along St Michael’s Avenue in Yeovil.

 

Artur Krysiak, Joe Lea, Ben Whitfield, Matt Butcher, Matty Dolan and Ollie Bassett – as well as the Jolly Green Giant – teamed up with the supermarket chain to pose for photographs and take part in the cutting of the ceremonial ribbon.

The store will serve a wide area in the east side of the town and has been transformed from the previous Green Dragon pub. 

 

Matt Charlton the store manager was delighted to co-open the store alongside the Gaffer and several of the players.

 

He said: “It was great to have Darren and a number of the players here to open the store for us, it was nice to see their interest in not only the store but the local community.

 

“We look forward to hopefully seeing them back inside the store soon.”

by Fungai Motezu

Yeovil Town launch new goalkeeping centre

Yeovil Town have launched a new goalkeeping centre designed to hone the skills of the next Artur Krysiak and Jonny Maddison which kick starts tonight.

 

Aimed at children aged between seven and 15 of all abilities, the sessions will be led by the club’s first team goalkeeping coaches with FA/UEFA qualifications.

 

Starting from £6 per session between 1730 and 1830 at Huish Park each Thursday during school term-time, there will also be opportunities to meet members of Darren Way’s first team squad.

 

Each session will focus on handling, distribution, crossing, reactions and positioning – all of the skills needed to follow in the footsteps of current Town stoppers Krysiak and Maddison. The first session takes place tonight at Huish Park. 

 

.here or follow the centre’s Facebook page by clicking sshulberg@ytfc.net)For more information, please contact first team goalkeeping coach Sam Shulberg (

by Fungai Motezu

wedovans.com provide car for captain Dickson

Glovers captain Ryan Dickson has taken delivery of his new Peugeot 208 courtesy of wedovans.com. 

Dickson has signed a 12-month contract with the van specialists who are based in Gillingham, Dorset and will take charge of the driver’s seat.

Simon Prout, the company’s owner, has been a Yeovil supporter for more than 40 years and is pleased to have supplied Ryan with the vehicle.

He said: “I’ve been a long-term supporter of the club and I’ve admired the work done by Darren Way and Terry Skiverton with the team. 

“I’m delighted to be able to provide Ryan with a car on behalf of everyone at wedovans.com.”

With over 25 years in the motor trade, Simon Prout and wedovans.com are able to provide special deals with manufacturers, multi-franchise dealerships as well as leasing and rental companies. 

by Fungai Motezu

Coach service to Yeovil Town home games

Coach company plans service to Yeovil Town home games

Local coach company Berrys now run a special return service to Yeovil Town home games from Bridgwater, Taunton and Ilminster.

Pick ups are from Bridgwater coach station, Taunton Kings Arms and Ilminster Market Square with a similar return service.

For a 3pm kick off the service will run at 12noon from Bridgwater; 12-30 from Taunton and 1pm from Ilminster.

For an evening kick off (7-45) Bridgwater 4-45pm; Taunton 5-15pm, and Ilminster, 5-45pm.

Cost will be £9 adults and £5 children. To book call 01823 331356 or e-mail info@berryscoaches.co.uk