First points of the season for Bassett U14 team that had to be earnt against an equally determined and physical Northleach side. From the kick off, it was Northleach who had the better start and in the first 10 minutes had all the play and the goal chances. Gradually Bassett played their way back into the game and it was at this time when the game was evenly balanced that Northleach scored from a defence splitting through ball. From the restart Bassett redoubled their efforts and chances continued to be missed on both sides, both defences being troubled by quick forwards. However, it was Northleach who scored again to make it 0-2, but credit to Bassett whose heads could have easily dropped, for continuing to press the visitors defence. Following a brief period of pressure it was no surprise when Tom James slotted home Bassett's first and a few minutes later added a second to bring the half time score to 2-2.

The second half began with both defences considerably tighter and chances being at a premium. With chances so few and far between it looked like Northleach had taken the points when they scored with 10 minutes gone to make it 2-3. Both sides seemed to redouble their efforts. Sean Leeke, at sweeper, Gareth Jones, Gareth Bridges and Steve Gardner in defence all tackling hard and covering each other. Bassett continued to press for the equaliser when with Tom James clear, he was brought down just on the corner of the box. From the resultant free kick, and with the Bassett supporters willing it in, Tom James hit a brilliant shot straight into the back of the net to complete an excellent hat-trick. With exhaustion setting in both players and supporters the game had one more twist as a Northleach player was tripped in the box resulting in a penalty. With everyone holding their breath the Northleach forward stepped up and struck a low ball which was brilliantly held by Man of the Match Scott Smedley, who had played in a calm and confident manner all game. With five minutes left, both sides pressed for the winner but overall a draw was probably a fair result and in the way the two teams played it is a real surprise that both find themselves at the wrong end of the table.

Credit: Unknown
Last modified on Monday 23rd November 2020 at 12:32