Wigmore Wanderers Fall To The Walnut Tree In League Clash

Wigmore Wanderers FC faced off against The Walnut Tree in a league home match at Rainham on 23 February 2025, kicking off at 10:30 am. The match ended in disappointment for the Wanderers, who succumbed to a 3-1 defeat despite an early lead.

Wigmore Wanderers adopted a 3-4-3 formation, which featured Zach Henderson in goal, flanked by a three-man defence consisting of Alex Toms, Harley Tutt, and Harvey Edkins. The midfield was anchored by Liam Apps and Ben Lucy centrally, with Ben Brewster on the right and George Tutt on the left, providing width and support to the attacking trio of Morgan Arnolt, James Lundie, and George Hennessy. This setup was designed to exploit the flanks while maintaining a solid defensive base.

The substitutes for the match included Jack Downey, Charlie Ivey, and Oli Dadson, who would be called upon later as the game unfolded.

The match began brightly for the Wanderers, who took the lead in the 8th minute. James Lundie scored with a powerful header from close range, expertly assisted by George Hennessy from a corner kick. The home side's early advantage ignited hopes of a positive outcome.

However, the momentum shifted as The Walnut Tree began to assert themselves. In the 26th minute, Jack Downey replaced George Tutt, followed shortly by Charlie Ivey coming on for Ben Lucy in the 30th minute, as the Wanderers sought to maintain their grip on the match.

As the first half progressed, the Wanderers held their lead until the interval, but the second half brought a stark change in fortunes. Just minutes after the restart, in the 59th minute, The Walnut Tree equalised, turning the tide of the match. They then took the lead in the 66th minute, leaving the Wanderers scrambling to respond.

In a tactical move, Oli Dadson came on for Ben Brewster in the 58th minute, and George Tutt returned to the pitch, replacing James Lundie shortly after. Despite these changes, the Wanderers struggled to regain control.

As the match wore on, the Wanderers made further substitutions, with Ben Brewster returning to the field in the 71st minute, replacing Oli Dadson, and Ben Lucy coming back on for Liam Apps in the 72nd minute. Jack Downey also re-entered the fray, taking over from Lundie in the 76th minute, while Liam Apps returned to replace Charlie Ivey in the 80th minute.

Despite their efforts, the Wanderers could not find a way back into the game. The Walnut Tree sealed their victory with a third goal in the 83rd minute, leaving the home side with little time to mount a comeback.

Morgan Arnolt was named Player of the Match for his tireless performance, but it was a day of frustration for Wigmore Wanderers as they were left to reflect on missed opportunities and a disappointing result.