Barrington Park, 10th August 2014

Two quickfire first half goals and another outstanding performance from ‘keeper Ben Mitchell ensured Wootton Bassett Town maintained their vice-like grip over local rivals Shrivenham as Paul Braithwaite's men recorded a 2-1 victory.

Bassett have never lost in their five league meetings against Shrivenham, with this victory being their fourth.

A pair of goals in quick succession midway through the opening period set Bassett on their way. Richie Carter – scorer of just two goals in over 130 appearances in blue and yellow – was the somewhat unlikely supplier of the first as he connected powerfully at the near post with Dan Bailey's whipped in corner to head home.

Shortly after it was 2-0. Shrivy manager Sam Collier, playing at sweeper, felled Shaun Terry in the box, leaving the referee no choice but to award a penalty. Nathan Gambling didn't connect well with the spot kick, but did enough to ensure the ball went in off the post.

Despite the home team seeing more of the ball, Bassett's lead was a deserved one. However, there was no doubting that it would come under threat in the second period.

And early on Shrivenham earned a penalty of their own as Collier was caught inside the area. Liam Edmondson strode forward from defence to take the kick, but saw his effort repelled thanks to a brilliant Mitchell save.

The advantage was eventually halved with quarter of an hour to go as dangerous substitute Josh Fowler saw a well struck shot from the edge of the area catch a deflection and settle in the back of the net.

It was then backs to the walls for the visitors as Shrivenham threw everything forward. Fine glovework from man of the match Mitchell kept them out though, while Pete Sykes pulled off a dramatic goalline clearance.

Bailey could then have settled the game once and for all but could only force a parried save, which James Skinner just failed to follow up on.

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