FOLLOWING THE SALTMEN

4th March 2025

Hellenic League Division One

History often repeats itself. This is certainly the case with Droitwich Spa FC and unlikely final scores. Back in August, Spa recorded three 6-2 wins, against Newent, Nuneaton Griff, and Bewdley. Is it possible that now, at the other end of the season, the Saltmen are developing a new habit? Recent results would suggest they are developing a liking for winning by a 6-1 scoreline.

Saturdays’ win by this scoreline at Chipping Sodbury was no fluke. To prove it, Spa went and repeated the feat at Wellington.

Another sizable contingent of Spa fans braved sat-nav directions. I’m sure our party used roads last crossed by Dick Turpin and Black Bess. Eventually, they made it through the wilds of the Worcs-Hereford border lands. They reached the pleasant village of Wellington. They were greeted by friendly faces of Wellington FC officials. These faces bore the words few weary travelers want to hear. “There’s no bar!!” Undeterred, the Spa faithful enjoyed hot teas and coffees served in proper mugs, which you don’t see everywhere.

The first thing to note when entering the tidy Recreation Grounds is the pitch, which was in remarkably good condition. Credit must go to the groundsmen, as it looked to be the best playing surface we have seen in months.

Droitwich boss Andy Crowther sent out the same starting eleven he selected at Chipping Sodbury. Spa started brightly and enjoyed good spells of possession. However, it was soon clear that Wellington were prepared for the expected onslaught. The home side set up with what looked like a back 4 plus sweeper and bus driver. Their attacking ambition seemed limited to winning possession then pumping the ball upfield for the effervescent Otto Parry to chase. On nine minutes, this tactic paid dividends. Spa lost possession in midfield. The ball was sent up to the right wing. An inch-perfect cross was delivered, and the header left Dom Rogerson in the Spa goal with no chance.

The setback did not deter the Saltmen who immediately went back on the offensive. Perry Moss had a strong effort deflected just wide. The Tangerines threw bodies in the way of a number of goal-bound efforts. Two of these blocks being on or very near the goal line. On 29 minutes, Spa finally made the breakthrough. Josh Hurdman kept the ball in play then crossed the ball for Alex ‘No Gumshield Required’ Dugmore to restore parity between the two sides. Jay Sauntson hit the post and Wellington keeper Jack Oxenham made a great save from Josh Hurdman but we reached half time with the score 1-1.

As you might already have guessed, the second half was almost completely dominated by Droitwich. Within 5 minutes of the re-start, Nathan Binner lifted a shot over the bar from 12 yards. Next up was the impressive Cory Rudd, whose long range effort looked destined for the top corner, only to be denied by a breathtaking save from Oxenham who managed to get enough on the ball to divert it for a corner. Hurdman’s corner was met by wing commander Dugmore who soared above the Wellington defence to glance the ball unerringly inside the far post. Spa had the lead.

Two became three when Josh Hurdman’s shot was stopped on the line only for Ben Tilbury, who was first to react, following up and thumping the loose ball in from inches. I suspect it was a frustrating evening for Ben, so it is good to see him continue to chip in with goals.

With ten minutes to play and Spa cruising, substitute James Lemon won a penalty after being tripped inside the box. Perry Moss made no mistake from the spot. A couple of minutes later Josh Hurdman struck the ball from 20 plus yards. Oxenham looked to have it covered but the ball took a wicked bounce over the luckless stopper’s dive for 5-1.

Within seconds of the re-start a fabulous improvised flick from Matt Fusco sent Lemon clear again. The club captain’s classy finish completed the scoring for Spa.

While a 6-1 score sounds easy for the visitors, there have been times this season when Spa struggled against teams that set up like Wellington. The last two results were encouraging for the team’s promotion hopes.

The team performed well. All eleven starters and the substitutes contributing to achieve a great away win. That makes it trickier than usual to choose the ‘Following The Saltmen’ man of the match. From a strong field of contender’s the award goes to Josh Hurdman who was a constant thorn in the side of the Wellington side.

Inspired by Sunday’s Oscars Ceremony there is a special accolade for ‘Best Supporter in a Supporting Role’ which goes to George and the boys for special services to Flags.

Next up is the Marsh Cup tie against Hartpury University which will be played at Kings on Saturday 8th March

See you there.

Cheers

Steve

#UTS