Royal Wootton Bassett Town Veterans Blue took the spoils against last season's champions Marlborough Town with a disciplined performance capped by a fine Jeremy Newton goal.
Bassett struggled in the early exchanges, relinquishing possession of the ball too easily and allowing Marlborough to push on. A warning was shot across the boughs when a deep cross from the right found the number nine in space at the back-post but his header was well saved by Paul Boys-Stones.
The Vets picked up from this point and started to bring Newton and Shaw into the game, although they lost Parker to a surprise hamstring injury after ten minutes, Cooper coming on as their only substitute.
The back three of Warren, Cinquegrani and Cook (shifted to defence to replace a sun-soaked PD) were now well set, and Bryan Wood and Pete Wilson provided the midfield screen in front of them, with Wood doubling up as cover for Newton at left-back (just like the old days!).
Chances were at a premium at both ends, Newton and Ohrland trying their luck from distance, and Boys-Stones quick off his line at the other end to snuff out a chance from a throughball.
The Blues took the lead towards the end of the half. Cook's slide rule pass from the back found Newton on the left and he advanced past his man before cutting in. As the Marlborough defence stood off expecting a cross, he curled a sumptuous finish over the stranded keeper and into the far corner.
A second was nearly added before half-time: Shaw managing a right-wing cross from a crowded position and Cooper hooking just wide at the near-post.
Although pleased with the score-line and the measure of control, Bassett readied themselves for a second half storm. In fact, Marlborough played into their hands somewhat, long balls from full backs were easily swallowed up by the defence, and they were unable to disrupt the Blues' shape and therefore their dominance.
Martin Jefferies was consistently strong at right wing-back and Bryan Wood was belying his fifty years, tidying up everything in midfield, with Wilson a dynamic presence alongside. Newton continually looked dangerous from the left with numerous efforts going close. Martin Ohrland came into his own, spraying passes and supporting what was now a front three. Shaw and Cooper continued to harry the defence and spring a break. On occasions just the final pass or choice to shoot let Bassett down.
Most impressive of all was Boys-Stones in goal. Any Marlborough ball into the box was dealt with comfortably and his handling from shots was solid. He also provided great distribution with his feet and, not long from the end, was well placed to make a save from a dangerous free-kick look easier than it was.
It seems harsh not to list all the blocks, challenges and interceptions of Warren, Cook and Cinqs; there were too many! But collectively they were phenomenal and gave the Vets the springboard for success.
There was also super support from many of the Yellows team on the sidelines, plus family members and a crocked Steve Lynch!
Bassett finished in control, a strong and disciplined team performance keeping a great team shape, and always looking dangerous in attack. They now lead the league, although with teams all having different amounts of games played, they await the outcome of games in hand with interest.
Man of the Match: MOM: Paul Boys-Stones - a star performer in the biggest game. Ensured the Vets finished with a clean sheet and was commanding around his box.
Pink Pony: Kept in the stable for now as no obvious contenders!
Credit: Junior Striker
Last modified on Tuesday 9th April 2019 at 20:43
