A very warm welcome to the players and supporters of Tiverton Town FC, who this Tuesday will visit the Avenue Stadium for our latest clash in the Southern League Premier Division South (KO 7.45pm).
Speaking prior to the game to Dorset Echo Sport, Dorchester Town assistant manager, James Wood, said it was important the Magpies nip in the bud the poor run of form, which has seen them lose three games in a row.
He added the team is “really looking forward” to playing at home, for the first time in three weeks, and is expecting a “very entertaining” clash with Tiverton.
Do you want to know a bit more about our visitors before tonight’s game? Then check out our official match preview below...
Nickname: Tivvy
Founded: 1913
Stadium: The Ian Moorcroft Stadium
Capacity: 3,500, 520 seated
Playing surface: Grass
Brief history of Tivvy
Tiverton Town FC was originally established as Tiverton Athletic, just before the start of World War One. Shortly after the conflict finished the club merged with Uffculme St Peters, giving way to Tiverton AFC.
Up until the early 1970s the club competed with varying levels of success in county level football, during which time its name had shifted to Tiverton Town FC.
After making the switch to the Western League, Tivvy initially struggled, before clinching promotion to the Western League Premier Division at the end of the 1988/89 season.
During the late 1990s the club enjoyed two successful trips to Wembley Stadium, winning the FA Vase in successive years.
In the decades that followed, Tivvy successfully made the step up to the Southern League, drifting between its respective divisions. The club has been a member of the Premier Division since the 2017/18 season, after winning promotion via the play-offs.
The Gaffers - Martyn and Scott Rogers
Martyn and Scott - the son of Martyn’s cousin Peter - Rogers have been joint managers of Tivvy since 2021. It’s the second spell in which the pair have shared managerial duties at the club, with the latter having first started coaching Tiverton in 1991.
Across three managerial spells Martyn Rogers has earned legendary status at the club, securing several promotions and cup successes.
He had a brief spell in charge of Weymouth during 2011, helping the Terras avoid relegation before returning to Tivvy a couple of season later.
Not to be overshadowed, Scott Rogers has established himself as an astute coach at Southern League level and has previously been player manager at Willand Rovers.
Ones to Watch
Experienced frontman Niall Thompson has two league goals to his name this season and will be one of the key players in Tivvy’s frontline.
Club captain and centre-back, Jamie Richards, warrants a mention too. A commander in the Tiverton defence, he’s shown an eye for goal at the start of this season, notching three goals in the league.
Meanwhile, Dorchester fans will recognise Tivvy midfielder, Tom Purrington, who made the move from Dorset to Devon this summer, after re-joining the Magpies in 2021. Defender Toby Down also enjoyed a loan spell at the Avenue Stadium, during the 2016/17 season, when he was signed for Exeter City.
Form Guide
The Magpies - DWLLL
Dorchester come into Tuesday’s game on the back of three straight away losses - twice to Swindon Supermarine and in our most recent encounter with Hanwell Town.
But the Magpies have yet to taste defeat at home this season - recording four wins out of four games in all competitions - and will be keen to keep that streak up against Tivvy.
Tivvy - WWLWW
Baring a FA Cup loss to Yate Town, Tivvy are enjoying a good spell of form, having won four of their last five league and cup fixtures.
On Saturday, they defeated the Metropolitan Police 3-2 at the Ian Moorcroft Stadium.
Last Time We Met...
In February, the two sides fought out a 1-1 draw, with now Tivvy midfielder, Tom Purrington, sent off for Dorchester towards the end of the game.
Alfie Stanley had originally given the Magpies a 1-0 lead, only for Aaron Dawson to thump home a well taken volley just minutes before the full-time whistle.
Magpies Team News
Dorchester manager Glenn Howes should have a full strength squad to pick from for Tuesday’s clash with Tivvy.
The sole injury concern for the Magpies is over forward, Shaquille Gwengwe (ankle).
Admission fees
Adult: £12 (£11 in advance)
Concessions: £9 (£8 in advance)
16 to 18-year-olds: £6 (£5 in advance)
Under 16-year-olds: £4 (£3 in advance)
Fans are able to order online via the official Dorchester Town FC website HERE