Bassett started their 2000/2001 League campaign with a 1-4 defeat at Ferndale. In contrast to the Eldene match it was in the first half that Bassett struggled, finding themselves 3-0 down after only 20 minutes. It could have been more as Bassett continually failed to clear the ball, with Josh Henshall and Adam Leighfield causing all kinds of problems for the Bassett defence, Henshall scoring twice and Stevens also finding the net for Ferndale. Bassett seemed very nervous and were invariably second to the ball and not as strong in the tackle as their hosts. Bassett did manage an occasional attack, with Phillip Tearle instrumental in Bassett's better moments. It was from one of these attacks that Bassett pulled a goal back, Sean Toomey putting Mike Ford clear of the defence and he made no mistake scoring passed the Ferndale keeper, Watts.

A much-improved second half saw Bassett start to get on top but unfortunately the pressure was not converted into goals. Once again it was Phil Tearle who was causing the problems in the Ferndale defence. Just as it looked like Bassett might get • back into the game Ferndale broke and Adam Leighfield extended their lead. Bassett continued to battle away without managing to score any more goals. A disappointing result but encouragement that things got better in the second half.

Players MOM: Phillip Tearle (8 votes), R-up Rob Leighfield (3 votes)

Managers Man of the Match: Phillip Tearle / Robert Leighfield

Credit: Mark Smedley
Last modified on Thursday 24th December 2020 at 12:30