After reaching the semi finals last year, Royal Wootton Bassett Town's hopes of another extended Marsh Challenge Cup run were quickly dashed as Sam Collier's side suffered a 3-1 first round defeat at home against Roman Glass St George.

Bassett were left to rue a lively spell early in the second half when they were on top of their opponents, but could only yield an equaliser, a 70th minute Tommy Ouldridge goal cancelling out a lead Roman Glass had held since Shea Mannings' 10th minute penalty.

A fine finish from Lewis Leigh-Gilchrist then restored the visitors' lead with just over ten minutes of the match remaining before the same player put the outcome beyond doubt as stoppage time began.

Bassett, without a cup final appearance since the 2000-01 campaign, do still have an interest in three cup competitions - with games in each over the next two weeks.

That stretch begins with a Wiltshire Premier Shield quarter final visit to Highworth Town next Wednesday. There then follows the Isuzu FA Vase third round clash with Bridgwater United before a home date with Clanfield in the last sixteen of the Wiseman Lighting Floodlit Cup.

Progress in all three will be a tough ask - but it's an achievement worth aiming for as Bassett seek to end their silverware drought.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Saturday 18th May 2024 at 15:19