Headington Amateurs
Wootton Bassett TownWBTFC
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2 ‒ 3
Wootton Bassett Town Logo

WBTFC Scorers:
Craig Shand (2), Own Goal

Shand Provides Immediate Impact

Barton Recreation Ground, 28th November 2009

Pressure has often gotten the better of Wootton Bassett Town in recent seasons, but this year has been a different story as Dave Turner's charges continue to appear all but immune to its negative aspects.

And their 3-2 victory at third-placed Headington Amateurs, who in their past two games have beaten both Slimbridge and Letcombe at home, was testament to that.

Sitting six points behind their in-form Oxfordshire hosts with two games in hand, a first league defeat since September would have set Bassett back hugely in their attempt to claw their way back into promotion contention.

Yet, a resolute performance meant that they completed an impressive double over their opposition for the year, in turn lifting themselves into fourth and into a prime position to take third spot from its current occupiers.

The damage was done thanks to a brace from Craig Shand in his first game back with the club following his transfer from Cricklade Town.

His previous club had the grace to waive the seven day notice of approach in order for him to participate in this game, and boy will Turner be thankful for their action.

However, Cricklade's willingness to let him go is puzzling. Shand was harshly criticised by former boss Graham Jackson in a press release issued to the Hellenic League website, stating that he won't be missed. Yet, he is a player who can be relied upon to produce an impact.

In a limited spell at Rylands Way last season, he earned an FA Cup replay with a late goal at Flackwell Heath before singlehandedly turning the FA Vase encounter at Buckingham Athletic on its head, which initiated Bassett's longest ever run in that competition.

And he provided the spark yet again at Headington, netting two decisive goals, which – along with a strike courtesy of a home defender – lifted his side to victory by the odd goal in five.

Last modified on Monday 22nd June 2015 at 23:38

Headington Amateurs
Wootton Bassett TownWBTFC
Headington Amateurs Logo
2 ‒ 3
Wootton Bassett Town Logo

WBTFC Scorers:
Craig Shand (2), Own Goal