Midland Football League Premier Division
Saturday 1st February 2025
Stone Old Alleynians secured a valuable away point in a 2-2 draw against Stourport Swifts. After conceding an early goal, the Old Boys battled back to take a 2-1 lead, only to be pegged back by a late equaliser deep into added time. The match ended in controversy, with Alleynians’ goalkeeper Raajan Gill and a Stourport player both sent off following a heated altercation.
Early setback and quick response
The hosts struck within the opening minutes, with Dale Edwards finishing off a slick move to put Stourport ahead after just three minutes. Alleynians struggled to find their rhythm early on and were fortunate not to concede again during Stourport’s dominant spell.
However, in the 21st minute, fortune favoured the visitors. Jack Tomlinson surged forward and attempted to find Sam Wilson in the box, but a Stourport defender’s interception only diverted the ball past his own goalkeeper, levelling the score at 1-1.
Alleynians nearly took the lead shortly after when Zayn Sadiq, pushing forward from defence, met a cross with a powerful header from six yards out, but it went just wide.
Thomas strikes from the spot
The visitors grew into the game, and just before half-time, they were awarded a penalty after the ball struck a Stourport defender’s raised hand. Captain Matt Thomas confidently converted from the spot, firing past Dom Richards to give Alleynians a 2-1 lead at the break.
Half-time: Stourport Swifts 1-2 Stone Old Alleynians
Late drama and red cards
Stourport came out strong in the second half, pressing for an equaliser. In the 47th minute, Gill made a crucial save, pushing a powerful shot around the post. The Alleynians defence held firm, with Gill making another vital stop in the 65th minute.
While Stourport dominated possession, Alleynians had their chances. Liam Connolly’s long-range effort was saved in the 70th minute, and Jack Bowater fired over the bar shortly after.
The game’s drama peaked in stoppage time. Four minutes into added time, Gill made a desperate punch to clear a Stourport shot, but the rebound fell to Kai Adams, who smashed it into the net for 2-2.
Moments later, Stourport thought they had snatched a winner, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside. As tensions flared, a confrontation between Gill and a Stourport player escalated, resulting in both being shown red cards. The match concluded soon after with both teams reduced to ten men.
Full-time: Stourport Swifts 2-2 Stone Old Alleynians
Match details
Stone OA Starting XI:
Gill, Minshall S, Sadiq, Thomas (C), Connolly, Askey, Baxter, Wilson, Tomlinson, Bowater S, Bowater J.
Substitutes: Griffiths, Harper, Goodwin, Mikulski, Newton-Taylor.
Upcoming fixtures:
- Whitchurch Alport (H) – Saturday 8th February, 3:00 pm.
- Highgate United (A) – Saturday 15th February, 3:00 pm.
