Brunel started off the stronger side, having much of the possession in the opening 20 minutes. During this time, Bassett made a few good opportunities, but they came to no avail and were very solid at the back, preventing Brunel from having any chances at goal.
Eventually Brunel took the lead, converting a one-on-one with goalkeeper Scott Smedley. Shortly after, they scored again from another one-on-one after a long ball over the top caught out the Bassett back four, who up until then had played a flawless offside trap.
It looked as if the opening half was going to finish 2-0, but about 5 minutes before half time, Wayne Matthews headed home a brilliant cross from Shaun Leeke. This ensured that the gap at half time was only one goal.
The second half started with Bassett piling on the pressure as they looked for the equaliser. After about 10 minutes the goal finally came after a long free kick taken by Shaun Leeke from 10 yards outside Bassett's penalty area beat the Brunel defence, allowing Jamie Riddett to slot home.
Brunel then woke up and started to take the game to Bassett again. Brilliant defending from Bassett kept the game level. However, with about 20 minutes to go Brunel took the lead again after a dangerous corner was headed in.
This didn't get the Bassett heads down though, and they kept on battling. Their efforts were rewarded about 10 minutes from time, when yet another Shaun Leeke free kick from a similar position outside the Bassett penalty area beat the Brunel defence again, this time allowing Tom James to fire past the helpless Brunel keeper. Both teams had a few chances towards the end, but neither team could convert.
Overall a patchy performance from Bassett, with the second half being a lot better than the first. A draw was the fairest result, although it would have been good to secure a second win of the season. Particularly strong performances from Jamie Riddett, Tom James, Gareth Jones, Zhenia Fogel and Shaun Leeke ensured that Bassett got the point that they deserved.
Credit: Unknown
Last modified on Monday 21st December 2020 at 14:41
