Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 29 September 2020

Royal Wootton Bassett Town recorded another positive result as they played their opening home fixture of the Hellenic League Premier Division season against Longlevens. However, a first league win remains elusive for Sam Collier's side as they were held to a 1-1 draw by their Gloucestershire visitors.

The results means Bassett have now drawn three consecutive games - all of which have ended 1-1. Added to their pair of Emirates FA Cup victories on penalties that means five of the seven competitive fixtures they have played so far this season have ended all square after ninety minutes.

That is certainly a sign of improvement compared to last season, in which Bassett drew just four of the 27 league encounters they played before the campaign's curtailment.

But, like on Saturday after Fairford Town equalised late to earn a share of the spoils, Bassett were left frustrated at the fact they missed out on all three points.

Coming into the match, visitors Longlevens had enjoyed a solid start to the campaign, having been unbeaten in three matches including a draw on Saturday against the much fancied Binfield.

On the night though Bassett could lay claim to having been the better team. And Collier's side deservedly went in front when a well-worked move culminated in Tommy Ouldridge picking out the top corner with an outstanding left foot strike from twenty yards.

Longlevens ultimately claimed a point though thanks to the ever-dangerous Brad Martin. The powerful forward held the ball up well before playing a neat one-two with strike partner Harry Emmett. That fashioned room for Martin, who coolly rounded Harrison Ellis before slotting home.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Wednesday 30th September 2020 at 09:20