SWPL EAST Ivybridge Town 7 Stoke Gabriel & TP 0
- Details
- Created on Sunday, 27 August 2023 08:38
- Last Updated on Monday, 28 August 2023 08:54
- Published on Sunday, 27 August 2023 08:39
- Written by GRAHAM HAMBLY at Erme Valley
A closely contested first half produced only one goal through Connor Rush who scored in the 32nd minute with a close range shot after some good work on the left.
Ivybridge took command after the interval. Jack Alexander was on target in the 47th minute with a shot from a pass by Stan Lane. Alexander turned provider with a pass that saw Jake Lane crack home a fine shot in the 49th minute.
Lane, who was switched into midfield from his usual left back role, celebrated his attacking opportunity, scoring his fourth goal of the season with a shot in the 59th minute after more good work by Alexander.
Three minutes later Luke Forward was on target with his fourth goal of the season just five minutes after coming on a substitute for Rush. Again, Alexander created the opening as he continued to torment the visiting defence.
Ivybridge wrapped up their victory with late goals from Chris Wright (82nd minute) and a header from full back Curtis Legrice in the third of four added minutes.
Despite the one-sided appearance of the scoreline, mention is also due to Ivybridge goalkeeper Kane Gregory for pulling off a couple of impressive saves to ensure his side kept a clean sheet.
Substitute Bailey Gamble also caught the eye with an influential performance in midfield after coming on as substitute in the 38th minute when Tyler Yendle went off with an Achilles injury.
Ivybridge joint manager Wayne Gamble said: “I believe Bailey changed the game as soon as he came on. He was so calm in possession and keeps the ball moving.”
Although Ivybridge ended with a comfortable win, Gamble agreed that Stoke Gabriel matched them during the early stages, commenting: “We knew they had a bunch of young lads and they would go for it in the first 20 or 30 minutes, which they did and made it tough for us.
“We had a chat at half-time and said we had to up our game and show a bit more class. We had much more quality on the pitch but were not using it in the right areas.”
Commenting on the decision to switch Jake Lane into a more attacking position, Gamble said: “We have a big squad and we are trying to use other people in different positions, so Mitch Williams filled in at left back and gave Jake a bit of licence in midfield.
“Jake is an attacking player and it gives us a little bit of food for thought. He has gone in there today and scored two goals and got man of the match.
“Mitch is a no-nonsense defender but has not started a game this season. So today it was brilliant to give him his first start. He is a big member of this squad and will play a big part in this season.”
Gamble added it was a choice between Jake Lane and Jack Alexander for the man of the match selection and although the choice went to Lane, there was particular praise for Alexander.
“He was playing with a swollen ankle which was all strapped up,” explained Gamble. “That is what he gives you. He emphasises everything that we do at this club. Everyone looks up to him because of the way he closes down and works from the front.
“He scored and got three assists but did not get man of the match. That shows how good Jake Lane was on the day.”
Ivybridge now have a clear week before their next fixture, a trip to third placed Axminster on Saturday (September 2).
Gamble says: “The boys who have got knocks and little niggles can relax. We will have a good training session in midweek so I think we will have a strong squad ready to go to Axminster.”
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