A fine all-round display from Wootton Bassett saw them come away 4-0 winners from Pinehurst. Bassett always looked comfortable and in control in this top versus bottom clash, Pinehurst's young players offering plenty of running but little guile. Bassett took control straight from the off. Early chances were created for Frost and Damon York (signed from Pinehurst in the close season) but neither were taken. The opening goal came after 15 minutes, Ackrill, who was still up front following a corner, met York's deep cross beautifully to head home. Five minutes later Bassett had to rearrange the midfield when Vines limped off with a hamstring strain to be replaced by McKay. The change didn't seem to bother Bassett and they got the second after 35 minutes. John's long ball from the back eluded the Pinehurst defence, Walker latching on to it to fire home.

The opening 10 minutes of the second half saw Pinehurst have their best spell when Carney, the only player to cause Bassett any problems, shot narrowly wide. Bassett 0gradually regained control and increased their lead after 65 minutes, Hanrahan tapping home from six yards. York, who was out to make a point against his old club, had two great chances to score, the first he shot narrowly wide, and the second, following a fine move including Walker and Harrison, was blocked instinctively by the 'keeper. Bassett continued to go forward and got their just rewards with a fourth goal 15 minutes from the end. A corner from Walker fell for Ackrill to slot home his second of the game.

Credit: Paul Harrison
Last modified on Sunday 15th November 2020 at 18:38