Wedgwood FC Fall To Queensbury In Early Kick-Off Defeat

Wedgwood FC hosted Queensbury at the Wedgwood Sports And Social Club on 12 October 2025, with a 10:30am kick-off in a league fixture that ended 4-2 in favour of the visitors. Despite Wedgwood’s spirited efforts, Queensbury emerged victorious in a contest that saw six goals scored over the 90 minutes plus added time.

Wedgwood lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, aiming to balance defensive solidity with attacking flair. Ethan Wheeldon took his place between the sticks as goalkeeper, protected by a back four consisting of Ben Deakin at right back, Jordan Coleman and Nick Fricker as the central defensive pairing, and Alex Bayley on the left flank. In midfield, Lee Davies and Henri Royals operated as the two central midfielders tasked with both breaking up play and distributing the ball forward. Ahead of them, the attacking trio featured Jay Blood on the right wing, Craig Cookson centrally positioned as the attacking midfielder, and Shane Reaney on the left wing, all supporting lone striker Niall Cartlidge. Connor Mathews was named among the substitutes.

From the outset, the match promised an open contest, with Wedgwood’s formation designed to provide width and creativity through their attacking midfielders, while relying on the double pivot of Davies and Royals to shield the defence. However, Queensbury quickly asserted themselves, capitalising on defensive lapses and clinical finishing.

The first half saw a flurry of action, with Queensbury taking the lead through a well-worked move that exposed Wedgwood’s defensive line. Despite Wedgwood’s attempts to respond, the visitors’ pressure remained relentless. The home side’s attacking midfielders—Blood, Cookson, and Reaney—tried to carve openings, but Queensbury’s defence held firm. Niall Cartlidge’s presence upfront was a constant outlet, though he found limited service as the half progressed.

At the interval, the scoreline reflected Queensbury’s dominance, with Wedgwood trailing but still very much in the contest. The break offered a chance for Wedgwood to regroup and adjust their approach.

The second half saw Wedgwood push forward with greater urgency. Their attacking midfielders increased their involvement, and Cartlidge managed to find the net, reducing the deficit and injecting hope into the home crowd. However, Queensbury responded swiftly, restoring their two-goal cushion with a composed finish that demonstrated their clinical edge.

Wedgwood’s resilience was evident as they continued to press, and they were rewarded with a second goal that brought the scoreline to 4-2. Despite this, Queensbury’s superior organisation and finishing proved decisive, as they held on to secure all three points.

Throughout the match, Ethan Wheeldon was kept busy, making several saves to prevent a wider margin. The defensive efforts of Deakin, Coleman, Fricker, and Bayley were tested repeatedly, with the midfield duo of Davies and Royals working tirelessly to disrupt Queensbury’s rhythm. The attacking trio of Blood, Cookson, and Reaney showed flashes of creativity, while Cartlidge’s work rate upfront was commendable.

Connor Mathews was introduced later in the game in an attempt to influence proceedings, but the visitors’ control of the match remained intact.

In summary, Wedgwood FC’s 4-2 defeat to Queensbury was a hard-fought encounter that highlighted both the strengths and vulnerabilities of the home side’s 4-2-3-1 setup. Queensbury’s clinical finishing and defensive organisation ultimately proved the difference on the day.