The under 11s continued their winning ways on Sunday, but it was a far from convincing performance which saw them gain a 3 – 1 victory over a strong looking Lydiard Youth A side.

Bassett started off slowly and really never got out of first gear, against a strong looking Lydiard side that were out to upset a few teams after being promoted last year.

In a tight opening exchange Lydiard looked to have settled quicker into the game and quickly caused the Bassett defence a few problems with Fraser in goal having to be called upon to make a number of saves, but as the half progressed Bassett came more into the game creating a few scoring opportunities with the best of these falling to Tom and Daniel. The half finished with Lydiard slightly on top.

After a few choice words, a number of positional changes were made at half time.

Bassett started the second half better but could not really get their flowing passing game going, but with Bassett creating chances a goal always seemed likely, the best of these chances falling to Tom who put the ball just past the post after being put through by a ball from Nick, the game continued to go from end to end with the deadlock finally being broken by Nick Buckle, who picked up the ball just outside the Lydiard penalty area, then beat two players and coolly slotted the ball passed the keeper.

The second quickly followed this time with Jack Brain picking the ball up in midfield beating a couple of players and then threading a superb though ball to Nick who having outpaced the defence, rounded the keeper to tap the ball into the empty net.

The boys then thinking the game was over then let Lydiard back into the game with some sloppy marking and defending as a cross from the left found its way to an unmarked Lydiard forward who shot into the top left had corner giving Fraser in goal no chance. A goal which, on the balance of play, was well deserved.

With Lydiard now sensing they could get something out of the game a few more jittery moments followed for Bassett, but with man of the match Grant White marshalling the rest of the defence, no clear cut chances were made.

The match was finally sealed two minutes from time when Josh received the ball on the edge of the Lydiard box and stroked in a powerful left foot shot into the corner of the net.

The final whistle bought much relief to the Bassett contingent in what could only be described as a mediocre team performance.

The boys know that they will have to play a lot better this season if they are to maintain the very high standards that they, themselves have set over the last few years.

However, a victory in a close fought battle maintains their lead at the top of the table.

Credit: Unknown
Last modified on Sunday 27th December 2020 at 15:49