Following a promising start to the season, Royal Wootton Bassett Town Under 12 Blue had gone six league games without a win. However, this ended today in spectacular fashion with an away win against North Wilts League Division Two leaders Devizes Town Juniors.
Devizes had not dropped a point before this fixture, recording an impressive 21 points from 7 games, giving them a comfortable lead at the top of the table. Bassett have considered themselves unlucky with a string of strong performances that have failed to get the return they deserved. And after Devizes took an early lead at the Nursteed Road stadium early in the first half, it looked like it was going to be a difficult morning for Martin Jefferies' young side.
Despite the early setback, Bassett grew in confidence as the first half progressed and were nearly level after a ferocious right footed shot from Caden Jefferies was well saved by the Devizes 'keeper. Shortly after, Bassett forced an equaliser, and Cameron Iles was the first to react in the box and after a sublime first touch rifled the ball past the Devizes 'keeper.
A lack of fit substitutes started to take its toll as the second half progressed and Devizes began to dominate possession creating a number of excellent chances to equalise only to be thwarted by a series of world class saves from Tom Davis, the pick of the bunch a one handed reflex save that must rank as one of the best ever seen at Nursteed Road.
As Devizes pushed for the winner, Bassett struck. Breaking quickly, Caden Jefferies found himself in space on the right before an exquisite cross field ball found Jamie Black unmarked at the near post to convert in clinical style.
Bassett resolutely defended for the last ten minutes, a combination of battling defending and goalkeeping allowed Bassett to see out the win much to the delight of the management and vocal away support.
Speaking after the match assistant manager Matt Davis said: 'It was a gargantuan effort from all the boys and a thoroughly deserved win'.
Next up is a home match against Lydiard Millicent Juniors.
Credit: Deane Greenouff
Last modified on Sunday 2nd December 2018 at 19:57
