Another Big Afternoon Awaits on the Road
Tiverton Town vs Parkway | Match PreviewBy Mike Parrish
Following his side’s important 3–0 victory over Basingstoke Town on Good Friday, interim manager Stuart Dudley was quick to stress that his side are determined to make amends for the dismal showing on Boxing Day that ended in defeat against tomorrow’s opponents, Tiverton Town.
That message alone highlights the remarkable upturn in fortunes since Dudley stepped into the interim role following the departure of Chris McPhee. Alongside assistant manager Lee Peacock, Dudley has helped restore belief around the club, particularly at the Theatre of Trees, where Parkway have recorded five consecutive home victories.
However, there are still points to be gathered before safety is secured, and the trip to the Slee Blackwell Solicitors Stadium could prove one of the most important fixtures of the season.
The famous old Ladysmead awaits, and despite Tiverton’s relegation being confirmed following defeat on Saturday, the hosts will be determined to finish the season with pride. For a football club with deep roots in Devon football, the opportunity to claim local bragging rights will carry plenty of motivation.
Parkway’s rise through the non-league ranks has been rapid in recent years, and fixtures against Devon rivals such as Tiverton have always carried added significance. This latest meeting promises to be no different, with the home side already claiming victory in the reverse fixture at Bolitho Park on Boxing Day, when a Tor Swann double secured a 2–1 comeback win.
For Parkway, picking up points on the road remains a priority. Away form has been one of the challenges this season, with just three victories and 14 points collected on their travels, a statistic that underlines why Parkway still have one eye on the chasing pack.
Despite the well-documented difficulties at Tiverton this season, their young side has continued to compete. Alongside a victory over Hungerford Town, they have pushed sides such as Sholing, Evesham United and champions elect Walton & Hersham close, proving they remain capable opponents despite their league position.
Parkway were boosted by the return of Carlo Garside, Ryan Brett and Callum Hall on Good Friday, with Hall grabbing the headlines with a superb hat-trick. There could be further competition for places, with Mikey Williams pushing for involvement and discussions ongoing over whether Rocky Neal is fit enough to start. Mitch Beardmore remains sidelined but is expected to return ahead of the home fixture against Havant & Waterlooville next weekend.
With several key fixtures taking place across the division on Easter Monday, Parkway’s focus will remain firmly on their own task. The memory of Boxing Day still lingers, and Dudley’s side will travel to Ladysmead determined to put that result right and take another significant step towards safety.
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