This was much improved Bassett performance, outplaying Harrow Hill for much of the game. But for keeper Neil Jones, the score would have been four or five. And, as it was, it took a penalty to beat him. It was though, a deserved win.
Bassett started well, playing some good football and there was little Hill's defence could do except the big boot up field or into touch. They certainly showed little football skill for a side so high in the table. They could also be a bit physical, although all opponents have to contend with that.
Even without Stevens, Davis, Roberts and Morse, Bassett were little troubled at the back and although dominating the game, it was keeper Jones who stood between Bassett and goals.
On 15 minutes, he turned a goal bound shot over the bar and, 10 minutes later, spread himself to deny Scott Vincent a goal on his return to senior football when put through on his own. Nevertheless, Jones was beaten once, on the stroke of half-time, when a superb move saw Wayne Taylor's shot rebound off the bar.
The second half saw even more Bassett domination, Harrow Hill contributing nothing to the game except the boot into touch or anywhere.
Bassett keeper Paul Stevens was nothing more than a spectator but, for all their dominance, Bassett could not convert their superior play into goals, thanks mainly to Jones. The save of the game came in the 51st minute when he somehow got a hand to the ball that was surely going to be the one to beat him. He was, however, beaten in the 72nd minute. Richard Casey stormed into the area and beat his man, only to be tripped. The referee did not hesitate, and Richard Morgan scored from the spot. It was no more than Bassett deserved.
Just after, Scott Vincent was taken to hospital with a cut eye, Shaun Clarke coming on as substitute for his first run out for the club and was quite impressive. Still dominated and had all Bassett players left the field Harrow Hill still would not have got out of their half. Moloney and Hawkins must be happier with this performance but must turn dominance into goals.
Credit: Wilts & Glos Standard
Last modified on Thursday 31st December 2020 at 21:03
