When the Southern League Premier South fixture list for 2024/25 was released most Dolphin supporter’s eyes would have scanned the list to see when we would be hosting our neighbours from across the Stour. As it turns out we didn’t have long to wait as we entertain Wimborne Town in the Bank Holiday Monday clash at The Black Gold Stadium ko 3pm.

The Magpies have made a great start to the season with two wins, Hanwell home 1-0 & Winchester away 4-2 and one defeat Gloucester away 1-0 from their opening three fixtures. Putting four past Winchester will have been particularly pleasing for them.

As we know Wimborne were top of the Southern league – South Division for most of last season eventually being crown champions on 79 points with an impressive 24 wins from the 36 games played, scoring 76 goals.

The New Cuthbury became the home of the Magpies for the 2021/2022 season but despite the excitement of finally moving to the new stadium with its superb facilities, the campaign was a huge disappointment on the pitch. The team managed only three league victories at New Cuthbury, finished bottom of the table, and, for the first time in their history, Wimborne Town were relegated. In addition, the new grass pitch was beset with flooding issues which caused a number of postponements. So, the 4-season stay at Step 3 came to an end. However, there was some cup success with the club going further in the FA Trophy than ever before, reaching Round Two. The new Academy was successfully launched. And mid-way through the season. the Club was taken over by a consortium led by former Finance Director Lee Merrifield.

Since joining the Magpies from Hamworthy United the popular manager Tim Sills has done a great deal to turn the club around and he has enjoyed much success. The ex-Poole High school teacher enjoyed a very successful playing career himself which started at Millwall and included spells at many other league and non-league clubs. He guided Wimborne to their first league title in 24 years last season.

With local bragging rights at stake this promises to a classic encounter between two hard-working sides who like to get forward at every opportunity. As is mostly the case we will no doubt welcome several familiar faces back to the Black Gold with several ex-Dolphins now wearing the colours of the Magpies.

The weather forecast looks to be in our favour so come along to the Black Gold and see local non-league football at its very best.

Enjoy the game,

Neil Wellington.