A world-class injury time equaliser from Aleks Goralczyk secured a remarkable second consecutive promotion for Royal Wootton Bassett Town Under 13 Blue, following a pulsating 2-2 draw away to league leaders Croft Juniors Red. The result means that Bassett will be playing the elite teams in North Wilts League Division One next season
It seems a long time ago when Bassett lost two consecutive game at the start of the season to move to bottom of the table. A remarkable 10-1 win against Malmsbury proved to be the catalyst to a tremendous run of 12 wins which culminated in Sunday's draw, this secured promotion as league runners up.
Croft were always going to prove tough opponents, already promoted and knowing avoiding defeat would secure the title. Given what was at stake it was unsurprising a large crowd gathered at Croft to see a remarkable spectacle develop.
Bassett got off to an excellent start as an Ollie Maslen header bounced on the edge of the area and was driven past the Croft 'keeper from 20 yards by Alex Greenouff, securing his 30th goal of the season. The goal settled Bassett who were playing the expansive passing football that has become their trademark this season.
An early substitute Stan Lockley created problems for the Croft defence with a series of positive runs and forcing an excellent save half-way through the first half. Henry Greenouff also had the 'keeper worried with a shot from distance and Harry Scott saw a magnificent run down the right wing resulting in a chance that Bassett could not quite convert.
Croft looked every bit the league leaders and a typically great save from Charlie Davis kept Bassett ahead and a strong penalty appeal was denied by the referee.
Croft finally equalised at the end of the first half following a penalty which gave Charlie no chance. The match was finely poised at half time with the scores level.
Croft had the better of the early exchanges in the second half and took the lead mid-way through the first half following a goal from close range.
Bassett had battled magnificently in the second half and going behind was a serious blow, but the considerable spirit of the Bassett team was a driving force in the final 15 minutes as they chased the all-important equaliser. Bassett had pushed players forward but failed to create any clear-cut chances, Charlie Brooker looking continually dangerous and supported by Amir Sakiru.
As injury time beckoned Bassett were rewarded for their endeavour. The ball bounced 30 yards from goal, Aleks had only one thing on his mind. He hit a ferocious volley that remarkably gave the Croft goalkeeper no chance despite being so far from goal. The strike resulted in pandemonium on and off the pitch as Bassett knew that promotion was now within touching distance.
The final whistle was greeted with celebrations from both teams as each team were promoted. It was an amazing team performance, the defence of Ollie, Ewan and Henry remained strong all game with each playing their part in containing Croft. Special credit to goalkeeper Charlie Davis who has proved to be one of the standout keepers in the league this season and Ollie Maslen for another man of the match performance.
The midfield of Jude, Stan, Connor, Toby, Aleks and Harry battled hard all day with tenacious tackling and some mesmeric skills creating chances further up the field.
It wasn't a day for many chances but the strike team of Charlie, Amir, Kyle and Alex with a combined 60 goals all season have ensured that Bassett have been able to take advantage of the chances they have created.
Players of the Match were awarded to Henry Greenouff and Ollie Maslen.
From a slow start in September, it really has been a remarkable season for Bassett. Full credit to Brandon and his coaching team who have worked tirelessly to support the progression of the team this year. Bassett know that next season will be a further step up in quality but with the talent at the disposal of the coaching team the new season cannot come quickly enough.
Credit: Deane Greenouff
Last modified on Saturday 6th May 2023 at 17:23
