Mens · Premier Division
Telford sets the tone as Playwell dig in for a hard-earned win over Westgate
2‑1Playwell United vs Westgate Rovers· 08 Nov 2026· Home
Jamie Telford's goal and tireless running earned him Player of the Match as Playwell United dug in for a hard-earned 2-1 win over Westgate Rovers at Mill Lane Stadium on Sunday. Karl Neville scored the second-half winner.
This long-running rivalry was always expected to be a tough one, and it proved that way. It was good to welcome goalkeeper John Hartley back into the side after recovering from a broken finger.
This long-running rivalry was always expected to be a tough one, and it proved that way. It was good to welcome goalkeeper John Hartley back into the side after recovering from a broken finger.
Telford strikes from the corner
Playwell went ahead in the 19th minute. Defender Tom Calloway provided the assist from a corner, and midfielder Telford struck it straight through the laces from the edge of the penalty area to make it 1-0.
The home side had a chance to double their lead in the 44th minute, but the penalty came back off the crossbar. Playwell went into the break a goal to the good.
The home side had a chance to double their lead in the 44th minute, but the penalty came back off the crossbar. Playwell went into the break a goal to the good.
Neville restores the lead after Westgate's penalty
Westgate drew level from the penalty spot in the 54th minute. Six minutes later, manager Shaun Bennet sent on winger Jordan Raikes for defender Luke Sherwood, a change that gave the side width.
Players from both sides were shown cards in the second half. Playwell picked up a yellow and Westgate had a man sent off.
Playwell went back in front in the 74th minute. Winger Sam Whitmore set up striker Neville, whose first-time finish from close range went in inside the far post to make it 2-1. There was still work to do after that, and the team had to dig in late to see the win through.
Players from both sides were shown cards in the second half. Playwell picked up a yellow and Westgate had a man sent off.
Playwell went back in front in the 74th minute. Winger Sam Whitmore set up striker Neville, whose first-time finish from close range went in inside the far post to make it 2-1. There was still work to do after that, and the team had to dig in late to see the win through.
Just reward for Telford's work
Telford was named Player of the Match. He worked really hard throughout the game and made it difficult for defenders to mark him, so his goal was a just reward for his performance.
Thank you for supporting the Littlewood Grieving Parents Charity
Bennet also wants to thank every supporter who donated to the Littlewood Grieving Parents Charity. Every penny goes towards helping parents cope with high and rising funeral costs, and that generosity is greatly appreciated by everyone at the club.
Bennet delighted, but sees room to improve
Manager Shaun Bennet said: "I'm delighted with the result. We knew it was going to be a tough one, and we had to dig in late on, but I was pleased with how we played together. The lads played for each other, kept their shape and created chances, and that's what got us over the line. There are still things we can improve, but it was a hard-earned win and I'm proud of the effort that went into it."
On the road to Woodside
Playwell's next game is away to Woodside FC at Woodside Park on Sunday 20 December, with kick-off at 2:00pm. There's a gap of several weeks before then, and after the effort that went into beating Westgate, the team will be looking to build on it on the road. If you can make the trip, it would be great to have your support.
Thank you, Moorside Accountants
Your continued support as our shirt sponsor makes a real difference to everyone at Playwell United. Moorside Accountants: We run the numbers while you run your business.
Moorside Accountants
www.moorsideaccountants.co.uk
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