A week after beating Mangotsfield United by the odd goal in the Emirates FA Cup, Royal Wootton Bassett Town fell to a single goal defeat against the same opponents as they met again at the Sustain Stadium, this time in the Hellenic League Premier Division.

Jack Ball scored the only goal of the game, firing from the edge of the area into the bottom corner with a well taken shot on the turn eight minutes before half time.

In another close encounter that saw chances for both teams, that proved to be the decisive moment of the match.

Bassett were then left to rue passing up some great opportunities in the second half.

Just after the hour Alfie Presley found the post with a follow up effort scrambled away. With ten minutes to go Dan Hill was felled in the box though penalty appeals were waved away. Shortly after veteran Alan Griffin, off the bench to try and salvage something, narrowly hit over.

The result means Bassett have just three points from their opening three matches - all at home.

Sam Collier's side will aim to improve that record on Tuesday when they play the last of four league games as part of their long homestand to begin the new campaign.

However a difficult task lays in store as Roman Glass St George - winners of their opening three games and topping the table in the season's embryonic stage - are the visitors.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Sunday 11th August 2024 at 09:14