FOLLOWING THE SALTMEN

Hellenic League Premier Division

23 August 2025

The Save on Tyres Stadium

It’s a bit of a treck from Droitwich to Highworth, especially on a Bank Holiday Saturday. But it’s well worth the effort, particularly if someone else drives!

On arrival in Highworth, our driver found a parking space outside the Rose and Crown pub. It would have been very rude to walk past so, under sufferance we went inside and ordered two pints of Carling and a pint of Thatchers which came to a very reasonable price of £12.10. That’s a full 25% cheaper than the pub we visited in Thornbury!

After enjoying our refreshments we walked to the Save on Tyres Stadium, home of Highworth Town to be met with a very friendly welcome. The comfortable clubhouse served reasonably priced food and drinks and the terraced decking outside makes an excellent spot to watch a game.

The injury ravaged Spa team saw the return of Ben Tilbury, Perry Moss and Dom Rogerson to the starting lineup and a full debut for new signing Curtis Smith at right back.

I’m not going to go into detail of the game as this was not a classic by any means. The Saltmen looked comfortable and had the better of the chances. Highworth also had chances of their own but Dom’s return to the team was not particularly taxing

There was no shortage of endeavour but goalmouth chances were scarce and both defences stayed firm.

Curtis Smith, made an impressive debut for the Saltmen. The uninitiated would have been hard pressed to guess he was the newbie in the team. With Jack Brighton being unavailable for an undetermined period, it is reassuring to know we have a very competent replacement.

Ultimately, a share of the points was a fair result. It draws a line under Tuesday’s defeat to Slimbridge and this should definitely be seen as a point gained rather than two lost. Another positive was that the injury list does not appear to have got any longer.

There are two FTS man of the match awards to be awarded today. On Tuesday, I forgot to include the MOTM in the blog. The award for the Slimbridge game goes to Joe Clayton for a very solid performance in very trying conditions.

Today’s FTS man of the match award goes to Ben Tilbury. Calm and assured under pressure, Ben’s ability to recognise danger, step in and then spray 70 yard passes to all parts of the field sets him apart from many centre backs. Special mention for Joe Clayton and Jay Sauntson, both of whom had excellent games.

Another strong showing from the Spa Faithful who appeared to outnumber the home supporters among the attendance of 96.

Over all, an excellent day out.

Thanks to all at Highworth for a warm welcome to their lovely stadium.

Next up, a Worcestershire derby on Monday against Pershore Town.

See you there.

FTS