Royal Wootton Bassett Town kept their Hellenic League Premier Division playoff hopes alive with a vital - and deserved - 2-1 victory away at Pershore Town.

Going into the game, both teams knew that defeat would likely eliminate them from playoff contention.

But facing that pressure, Sam Collier's side delivered the goods.

All three goals came within a decisive fifteen minute spell to close out the opening period.

Bassett took the lead when 'keeper Daniel Brabham's long ball forward wasn't dealt with by the home defence, allowing Brad Pagliaroli to seize possession inside the Pershore area. And his ball across the face of goal was helped in by Kyle Witt's close range finish.

Pagliaroli then doubled Bassett's lead to put the visitors in control. Shooting from a tight angle, Pagliaroli did brilliantly to squeeze his effort past 'keeper Joe Stockton with the ball going in with the aid of the far post.

Pershore did manage to halve their deficit on the stroke of half time when Harlie Price bundled over the line after Bailey Fuller had helped on a James Baldwin cross.

A late first half goal in last week's cup visit to Longlevens served as that game's turning point. But this time around, Bassett maintained their performance level after the restart to seal an impressive away win.

With their win - and Fairford Town's draw against Longlevens that saw another side they are fighting with for position drop points - Bassett now seem likely to claim a top six finish.

Bassett are five points clear of Worcester Raiders with both teams having three games to play.

Pershore and Fairford both hold games in hand but are now seven and eight points back.

A top five finish will guarantee playoff football again. But, Highworth Town's comfortable win at Lydney Town, means they remain favourites for fifth.

The Worthians are three points ahead of Bassett with a game in hand still to play. And given their goal difference advantage, six points from their last four games will be enough to claim fifth.

Already guaranteed a top five placing are title favourites Hartpury University, Mangotsfield United and Sporting Club Inkberrow.

Roman Glass St George will have their playoff status confirmed with just one more win.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Saturday 8th March 2025 at 19:38