Yeovil Town manager Billy Rowley described the team’s 4-1 defeat to Solihull Moors in their final game of the season at Huish Park as “really, really disappointing.” The Glovers endured a chaotic first half, conceding four goals despite a promising strike from Terrell Works that briefly offered hope. Although Yeovil showed improvement after the break and created several chances, the early damage was too great, leading to a sour conclusion to their campaign.
Rowley acknowledged that the scoreline did not fully reflect Yeovil’s overall performance. “Today we will try and erase that from our memory. We didn’t play as badly as the score suggests,” he said. “Sam, the analyst, told me Solihull had just five shots in the first half and scored four, which is quite rare. We nearly doubled their shot count and scored once. Sometimes these freak results happen, and it’s a real shame ours came in the final game.”
Despite the loss, Rowley praised the unwavering support from the Yeovil fans. “We spent 45 minutes after the match talking with the supporters. I want to massively thank them. Since Darren Simpson and I arrived four months ago, it’s been a real buzz to come to Huish Park. It’s a special place, and the supporters reflect that. I’m incredibly grateful for everything they’ve given us this season.”
READ MORE: Somerset Mum Runs Half-Marathon Dressed as Giant Brain to Raise Funds for Charity
READ MORE: Somerset Council Faces Criticism Over Chard Relief Road Delays
He added that fan support meant a great deal to him. “It’s easy as a supporter to boo or say negative things, but no one did. It’s a special feeling to be appreciated like that. I can’t commend the supporters enough, and I’m giving them another round of applause.”
With safety secured and the season over, Rowley’s focus is now on rebuilding. “All the players leaving us know now. I told them before the game, and this will go on record, I have nothing but positive things to say. I also have to remember I’m the fourth manager they’ve played under this season.”
“Getting 51 points is no small achievement,” he continued, “and it gives us a chance to go again. Part of my job is to rebuild and bring in fresh ideas and new faces.”
Special praise was reserved for goalkeeper Jed Ward, who collected multiple post-season awards after an outstanding season. “It’s either us or Real Madrid, so hopefully us,” joked Rowley. “Jed is the perfect professional: early to training, stays late, supports everyone, and is an incredible goalie. I don’t know where his career will take him, but it’s going to be very high.”
Looking ahead, Rowley outlined his aspirations for Yeovil’s future. “I’m proud and honoured to work for this club,” he said. “I want to give the supporters something to be proud of. We’ll look for players who fit our style and, most importantly, who are good people.”
“The message for next season is clear,” he continued. “Now that we’re safe, we have a clean slate to build a team with players suited to our style. We’ve got a good chunk of pre-season to instill these ideas. The plan is to build a squad that can compete at the top of the league by the New Year. I believe we’ll be in a strong position.”