FOLLOWING a dramatic 3-2 victory over local rivals Brixham AFC in the FA Vase second round proper, Bovey Tracey AFC manager Ben Gerring featured on the Juice and Western League podcast to discuss his squad’s cup progression, tactical growth, and long-term vision for the club.

Reflecting on the hard-fought victory, Gerring commended his side's commanding performance through the opening 80 minutes. Bovey Tracey established a firm three-goal advantage courtesy of a Stu Bowker opener, an Oliver Aplin strike on the stroke of halftime, and a second Bowker goal early in the second half.

Despite a late rally from Brixham, who scored twice via Albie Baker to set up a tense finish—Gerring expressed delight at securing passage into the third round.

He emphasised that advancing in knockout football remains paramount, providing a welcome bounce-back after a challenging 3-0 league setback away at high-flying Portishead Town.

Gerring offered an exceptionally candid assessment of his personal learning curve as a young manager adapting to the Western League Premier Division.

Reflecting on earlier heavy defeats against top-tier opposition like Clevedon Town, where he admitted to tactical naivety, Gerring highlighted how adjusting to a more experienced defensive structure paid immediate dividends against Portishead and Brixham.

With key additions such as Shane White complementing a retained core of eight squad members, Gerring asserted that Bovey Tracey possesses a genuine top-ten squad.

He noted that Bovey, Brixham, and Buckland Athletic constantly compete for the same local talent, making it a primary goal to establish Bovey as the preeminent regional club rather than merely enjoying a brief cameo season at Step 5.

Looking ahead, Bovey Tracey face a gruelling November fixture list against the division's top four teams, starting with a high-profile home clash against second-placed Bridgewater United.

Gerring noted that Bridgwater present a distinct physical, direct threat focusing heavily on set pieces compared to the fluid passing styles of Clevedon or Portishead.

The month is further highlighted by an extraordinary trilogy of away fixtures against Cornish outfit St Blazey across three separate competitions, the Western League, Les Phillips Cup, and FA Vase third round proper, all taking place within two weeks. Gerring humorously observed that one side will likely ruin the other’s season, while expressing complete confidence in his squad's ability to pull off an upset across the series.

Beyond matters on the pitch, Gerring warmly described the unique matchday environment at Bovey Tracey, located on the edge of Dartmoor.

Highlighting its reputation as a welcoming community hub, he outlined popular attractions located directly adjacent to the ground, including a BMX track, scenic riverside walking trails, a Harley-Davidson antique motorcycle museum and cafe, open pitchside areas for local youth football, and a clubhouse featuring live Sky Sports broadcasts.

Gerring stressed that maintaining this strong, inclusive atmosphere remains central to the club’s ongoing identity and long-term development.

The full interview with Ben Gerring can be found on Episode 11 of the Jewson Western League Podcast, available online at https://www.westernleague.co.uk/.