Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley described his short managerial journey as “a great ride” following a 1-1 stalemate against Eastleigh at Huish Park in the final match of 2025.
The Glovers struck first in the 28th minute. Josh Sims capitalised on a defensive error and promptly set up Luke McCormick, who netted his seventh goal of the season. However, defensive lapses allowed Aaron Blair to equalise from 12 yards, leveling the score just before half-time.
Rowley reflected on the match, noting mixed feelings: “There are large parts I enjoyed when I watch it back, but also areas we need to improve.” He praised the team’s early control and build-up play during the first 20 minutes but blamed a lapse in discipline for conceding the equaliser: “We strayed from the game plan, turned the ball over cheaply, and took our foot off the gas.”
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In the second half, Yeovil regained dominance and crafted several scoring opportunities but failed to secure the win. “The substitutes changed the game, and we probably should have scored with the chances we created,” Rowley admitted.
Looking forward, the manager urged his players to be more unpredictable in attack. “The message for the next few months is to vary our approach. We don’t want to rely on playing short; we need to stretch teams and exploit spaces behind defenders.”
Rowley singled out McCormick for his vital role in the team’s attacking play, adding, “Luke is instrumental, and although he probably feels disappointed for not scoring more tonight, his contribution is massive.”
The return of Morgan Williams from suspension was a highlight, with Rowley praising his defensive leadership and noting his near volleyed winner. Kyle Ferguson was substituted late as a tactical move rather than due to injury and replaced by Finn Cousin-Dawson, introduced to add attacking impetus.
Reflecting on the year, Rowley expressed gratitude for the club’s support and reiterated the need to improve results going into 2026: “While I’ve enjoyed my time here, the one thing I haven’t is the lack of points, so that’s our target for the new year.”
Yeovil will next face Braintree at Huish Park this Saturday at 17:30, eager to secure a victory to kick off their 2026 campaign.