Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley acknowledged the challenge his side faced after being reduced to ten men, but praised their resilience following a dramatic 3-1 penalty shootout victory over Alvechurch to reach the fifth round of the FA Trophy.
The Glovers were dealt a blow midway through the first half when Brett McGavin received a second yellow card, forcing Yeovil to adapt their game plan. “Playing with ten men against eleven for such a long period is tough,” Rowley admitted. “We had to shuffle the lineup, but the team handled it well.”
Rowley defended McGavin’s dismissal, describing the second yellow as soft but accepted it as part of the modern game. “He tried to withdraw, but the referee saw it as a second booking. I don’t blame Brett for that.”
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Despite the numerical disadvantage, Yeovil maintained control and created several chances, with Luke McCormick and Josh Sims coming close to scoring during regular time. However, neither side could break the deadlock over 90 minutes, leading to the decisive penalty shootout.
Once again, goalkeeper Jed Ward proved to be Yeovil’s hero, producing three outstanding saves to secure the win for his side. On loan from Bristol Rovers, Ward’s performance was lauded by Rowley: “He’s a brilliant professional and an unbelievable keeper. I’m really proud of him today.”
McCormick’s intelligent running and anticipation impressed Rowley, who noted that on another day, the midfielder could have scored multiple goals. “His timing is exceptional at this level.”
Another standout was debutant Dakarai Mafico, who was named man of the match after just one training session with the team. “He played in multiple positions and looked like the best player on the pitch,” Rowley said.
The manager also confirmed the departure of Andrew Oluwabori and James Plant, who returned to their parent clubs, but hinted at incoming transfers in the near future. “We have a few signings in the pipeline that fans will see soon.”
Yeovil now await their fifth-round opponents, with the draw scheduled for Monday afternoon. Meanwhile, they will turn their attention back to league action, embarking on their first away trip of the year against Brackley.
Yeovil Town (starting XI): Ward; Cousin-Dawson, Wannell, Ferguson; Greenslade (Tobin 27), McGavin, Mafico, Daly (Efete 66); McCormick, Sims (Maddox 80); Jarvis (Campbell 80). Subs unused: Gould.
Alvechurch (starting XI): Kilroy; Dugmore, Bavangabga, Merrett, Sephton; Wills, Perry, Ngandu; Sullivan (Dugan 81), Obadeyi, Wakefield (Whyte-Hall 64). Subs unused: Evans, Pearce, Schwarm, Timson, Sang.
Referee: Elliot Swallow.