Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley has issued a stark warning ahead of Saturday’s FA Trophy fourth-round match against Alvechurch. Hosting a side two leagues below them at Huish Park, Rowley stressed the importance of not underestimating their visitors.
“This is their cup final, they’re going to come and have a free hit on us,” Rowley said, acknowledging the challenge that lies ahead. Yeovil enter the tie buoyed by a 3-1 league win over Braintree Town and a hard-fought penalty shootout victory against Maidstone United in the previous round.
Alvechurch’s route to this stage has been marked by resilience, having triumphed in three penalty shootouts against Alfreton, Real Bedford, and Worcester. Rowley is particularly mindful of their high-intensity start: “The first 15 minutes they’re going to press, and we need to prepare for that.”
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For Yeovil, the FA Trophy represents not just silverware but also increased exposure. “It definitely gets more eyes on the club,” Rowley remarked, underscoring the significance of a cup run. However, caution remains paramount. “These games are out there for giant-killing at times, and we need to make sure our mentality is top-notch.”
In positive news for the Glovers, Jonathon Page has signed until the end of the season, bringing experience and tactical awareness to midfield. “I’ve known him for many years; he was a professional at Fulham and highly thought of there,” Rowley commented. Page, known for his positional intelligence and possession-based style, can operate effectively either as a single or double pivot, bolstering the squad’s depth.
Encouragement also comes with the contract extension of top scorer Luke McCormick, who committed to the club until 2028. “Luke was one of the first players I saw in training and instantly knew he was a top player,” said Rowley.
As the squad continues to gel, Rowley notes tactical patterns taking shape: “I can see and feel the patterns are starting to take place now,” he added. Fitness is mostly positive, with Jacob Maddox impressing in training. Nevertheless, some concerns remain as Alex Whittle stepped out of training and James Plant is sidelined with a slight hamstring issue. The manager indicated that strengthening options on the left might be necessary moving forward.
The club also bid farewell to Morgan Williams, who transferred to York City for an undisclosed fee. Williams leaves Yeovil after 185 appearances and playing a crucial role in their recent promotion to the National League. The club expressed gratitude for his dedication and wished him well as he moves closer to family in the north.
Yeovil Town fans will be hoping the cautious preparation and squad improvements translate into a strong showing on Saturday, as they look to avoid an upset against determined opponents eager to make their mark.