The report
Key Events:
- 2' Yellow card to Holne City Bruno Rossi
- 9' Waley Rovers Liam Roberts scores, assisted by Damian Nicholson
- 14' Yellow card to Holne City an unnamed player
- 22' Waley Rovers scores, assisted by Donald Hunter
- 47' Waley Rovers Emile Lacoste scores, assisted by David Allen
- 56' Waley Rovers Liam Roberts scores, assisted by Arne Riis
- 62' Yellow card to Waley Rovers an unnamed player
- 87' Waley Rovers David Allen scores
The opening moments saw Holne City picking up a yellow card early, with Bruno Rossi cautioned at 2'. Despite a balanced possession share—52% for Holne City—the hosts struggled to create meaningful chances, managing only four shots and a modest xG of 0.71. Meanwhile, Waley Rovers unleashed a barrage of 23 shots, 19 on target, with an xG of 5.18. Their relentless pressure paid off with goals at 9', 22', 47', 56', and 87', showcasing a clinical edge that the home side could not match. The visitors' tactical discipline and sharp finishing contrasted sharply with Holne City’s defensive lapses, which were exploited repeatedly. The game was punctuated by yellow cards for both sides, but no red cards, allowing Waley Rovers to maintain their attacking momentum throughout.
While Holne City kept the ball well and attempted to build from the back, their efforts were ultimately thwarted by Waley Rovers' aggressive pressing and precision in front of goal. The xG figures reveal the story: the hosts' chances were few and far between, with their best effort barely surpassing expected value, whereas Waley Rovers' shots consistently threatened to convert. The visitors’ ability to convert their chances, combined with their high shot volume, was the decisive factor. As the game wore on, the home side’s hopes diminished, and the visitors’ confidence grew, culminating in a comprehensive victory that will be remembered for its ruthlessness and efficiency.
No Holne City players reached the 7.0+ rating threshold, reflecting their struggles to impose themselves on the game.
Match Statistics:
Possession: Holne City 52% - Waley Rovers 48% Shots (On Target): Holne City 4 (2) - Waley Rovers 23 (19) Corners: Holne City 2 - Waley Rovers 7 Fouls: Holne City 9 - Waley Rovers 7 Yellow Cards: Holne City 2 - Waley Rovers 1 Red Cards: 0 - 0 Dribbles: Holne City 9 - Waley Rovers 16 Pass Accuracy: Holne City 86% - Waley Rovers 84% Tackles: Holne City 8 - Waley Rovers 11
The statistics reinforce the narrative: Waley Rovers dominated in shots, on-target attempts, and corners, while their defensive resilience was evident in their fewer saves needed. The visitors’ ability to maintain high pass accuracy and win more tackles underlined their control of the game. Despite a close possession split, the visitors’ relentless attacking pressure ultimately proved decisive, leaving Holne City with a heavy defeat and plenty to ponder.
The ratings desk
Standout performances
Liam Roberts*
Two goals and a constant threat, Roberts was the standout attacker, showing composure and clinical finishing.
David Allen*
Scored once and assisted once, Allen’s influence in midfield and attack was pivotal.
Donald Hunter*
Provided the assist for the second goal, his creative input helped unlock the home defence.
Emile Lacoste*
Scored the third goal, demonstrating sharp instincts in the box.
Arne Riis*
Assisted Liam Roberts’ second goal, contributing to the fluid attacking play.
Match Centre
Shot Breakdown
A booking nearby, then Liam Roberts for Waley Rovers. Tension, then arithmetic.
Gazzetta reconstruction from match events — not pitch tracking.
Key Moments
Team Comparison

