Following favourable results elsewhere last week, Royal Wootton Bassett Town Under 12 Blue knew that if they beat Abbey Meads Youth Purple they would secure promotion to North Wilts League Division Two. This was a feat they achieved in some style with a 9-0 victory away at the Moreton Playing Fields.

Following a late withdrawal from influential striker Mason Brookes and improved form in recent matches from Abbey Meads, Bassett were expecting a tough game.

Following an even early spell Bassett took the lead. Breaking clear of the defence, Alex Greenouff hit a strong shot which was parried by the Abbey Meads 'keeper. The ball fell to Ewan McGeachie inside the box and he was able to turn, steady himself and clinically finish to give Bassett the lead.

The second was soon to follow. A pinpoint Charlie Davis goal kick beat the last defender and Alex Greenouff was able to shrug off the final defender before doubling the Bassett lead.

The third then soon arrived. Henry Greenouff controlled the ball on his chest before hitting a pin point through ball for Alex Greenouff to calmly claim his second.

Shortly before being replaced mid-way through the first half, Kyle Lillis hit a thunderous right footed shot that just missed the post to the 'keeper's right.

Alfie-Jack McCarthy, a mid half substitute, soon made his presence felt at the end of first half with a series of strong shots on goal.

At half time the score was 3-0 with Bassett well on top. Defenders Bailey Hulbert, Henry Greenouff and Oliver Maslen looked rarely troubled and were able to effectively feed the ball up the pitch for the midfield and strikers to capitalise on.

The Bassett coaching team urged focus and concentration at half time knowing a strong start to the second half could soon put the result beyond doubt.

This was proved correct as Theo Box turned provider, setting Alex Greenouff through to claim his hattrick with a near post shot.

Midfield magician Harry Scott was a constant source of trickery and nearly finally put the tie to bed with a shot that then went narrowly wide.

The goal that effectively put the result beyond doubt was a contender for goal of the season. An exceptional out-swinging Alfie-Jack McCarhty corner was met with a Connor Iles bullet header to make the score 5-0.

Provider soon turned poacher as Alfie Jack McCarthy scored with a powerful low drive under the Abbey Meads 'keeper shortly after to make the score 6-0.

The game was starting to run away from Abbey Meads, and this was compounded by two further Alex Greenouff goals to score his 28th and 29th of the season and fourth and fifth of the contest.

The scoring was finally completed with a delightful chip from Connor Iles to claim his second of the game in some style.

Bassett mixed it up in the last five minutes with Henry Greenouff and central defender colossus Oliver Maslen moving further forward but neither Henry, Oliver, second half substitute Theo Box nor Jude Turnbull who, despite some excellent play, were able to find the breakthrough for a tenth Bassett goal.

Joyous celebrations were to follow from both the players, coaching staff and away fans who had been

treated to a masterclass performance from the team.

Man of the match was Ewan McGeachie for an imperious midfield performance.

Speaking after the game, manager Brandon Francis stated: "The lads have been fantastic all season. We have been undefeated all season at home. Promotion was our key aim this season and it is amazing to have completed it in such style."

Credit: Deane Greenouff
Last modified on Tuesday 22nd March 2022 at 08:59