Merley FC Narrowly Defeated By Stalbridge Stalbridge FC Reserves At Home

Merley FC hosted Stalbridge Stalbridge FC Reserves at their home ground on 29 November 2025, with kick-off at 2:00pm in a league fixture. The match concluded with a 2-1 victory for the visitors after a hard-fought 90 minutes plus added time. Despite Merley’s efforts, Stalbridge Stalbridge FC Reserves edged the contest to claim all three points.

Merley FC lined up in a traditional 4-4-2 formation, aiming to balance defensive solidity with attacking options. Caelan Spooner took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, protected by a back four comprising Charlie Philips at right back, Ryan Trevett and Sam Payne as central defenders, and Brandon Hay operating on the left flank. The midfield four featured Lewis Rose on the right wing, Ryan Vaughan and Ciaran Tuley occupying the central midfield roles, and Jack Mantle providing width on the left. Up front, Merley deployed Matt Rowe on the right and Jonty Hughes on the left, tasked with leading the line and converting chances.

Stalbridge Stalbridge FC Reserves found the net twice, taking advantage of moments of vulnerability in Merley’s defence. Despite Merley’s efforts to respond, including forward runs from Rowe and Hughes, they managed to score only once. The goal provided a glimmer of hope but ultimately proved insufficient to salvage a point.

Merley’s defensive unit, while resilient for much of the match, was breached on two occasions, and the team as a hole struggled at times to maintain possession under pressure. The forwards worked hard but were unable to convert enough chances to alter the outcome.

In the closing stages, Merley pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Stalbridge’s defence held firm to secure their 2-1 victory. The match ended with the visitors celebrating a well-earned win on Merley’s home turf.

Overall, the game was a tightly contested affair with moments of quality from both sides. Merley will look to regroup and build on their performance in upcoming fixtures, while Stalbridge Stalbridge FC Reserves take confidence from their narrow but valuable away victory.