Royal Wootton Bassett Town Under 15 Blue continued their unbeaten start to the season and remain top of North Wilts League Division Two courtesy of two late goals which saw them draw 2-2 at home against South Cerney.
Heading into the gamme Bassett would have hoped to capitalise on a strong start to season where they had scored 15 goals without conceding. South Cerney Youth sat second to Bassett in the table so it was going to be a tough encounter.
Bassett started strongly with Parker Fisher looking dangerous and hitting the bar early in the first half following a lovely jinking run. However, as the first half progressed Bassett let Cerney increasingly into the game. Tom Jerram did well with a last ditch clearance off the line to keep the scores level. However two quick fire goals from Cerney gave them the lead. Dan Seedall capped an excellent first half hitting the woodwork for a second time, but this still left Bassett trailing at the interval.
Bassett came out in the second half looking more like the team who were top of the table. Dominating possession and showing plenty of energy, Bassett continued to press but failed to create clear cut chances. Callum Luckhurst in particular continued his excellent first full season with an 'all action' display powering his team forward.
It was starting to feel as though it was not to be Bassett's day as Ed Greenouff hit the post and Fin had a header that went just over. Tom Davis was called into action to prevent Cerney effectively ending the game with a third goal mid-way through the half too.
Such is the resilience of Bassett this season that it always seemed like they had a chance and the game was turned on the Bassett opening goal. Beau Hicks showed remarkable strength and composure in the box to square the ball to Ed Greenouff who made no mistake from 10 yards.
As word of the Bassett comeback surged around the Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, the crowd rapidly grew in numbers urging the team forward to claim an equaliser. Caden Jefferies, making a welcome return after a long spell of injury, tested the 'keeper with a trademark drive from distance and Ed Greenouff had a bundled shot roll agonisingly past the post.
With seconds left on the clock it was Marshall who scored his fifth league goal with a ruthless predatory finish to draw the scores level resulting in exuberant celebrations from all around the ground. It felt a point gained rather than two lost at the end and Bassett retain top spot in the division.
Next up is an away fixture against Croft Junior Blue.
Credit: Martin Jefferies
Last modified on Monday 18th October 2021 at 14:35
