Royal Wootton Bassett Town's 2024-25 season will extend into April then.

Bassett advanced to the semi finals of the Marsh Challenge Cup as Sam Collier's side came from behind to beat Hellenic League Division One side Clanfield 4-1.

Two goals in the space of three minutes in the final quarter of the match proved pivotal as Bassett finally gained the upper hand over a talented Clanfield side who for most of the night - as in last year's Floodlit Cup meeting between the teams - proved they have the ability to compete against step five opposition.

Indeed the Robins led at half time after Charlie Trinder-Sage opened the scoring midway through the opening period.

But Bassett's leading scorer Alfie Presley pulled the hosts level seven minutes into the second half.

Presley then made it 25 goals for the season on 70 minutes when he scored from the spot.

Shortly after Bailey Gallagher netted to give Bassett a two-goal cushion.

Brad Pagliaroli then took advantage of Clanfield pushing to get back into the tie, adding Bassett's fourth in the dying stages of the game.

Bassett now stand 90 minutes (and a possible penalty shootout) away from a first cup final appearance for the Men's First Team since their 2000-01 Wiltshire Senior Cup triumph.

For Collier it will be his fifth cup semi final as Bassett boss.

Twice before - in 2020-21 against Kidlington Reserves and 2022-23 against Lydney Town - Bassett have been defeated at the semi final stage of the Challenge Cup.

For two consecutive seasons, Bassett have also lost against Swindon Supermarine in the last four of the Wiltshire Premier Shield.

Now though Bassett will be looking to end that hoodoo - and earn the shot at silverware that the manager and his team deserve.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Tuesday 25th March 2025 at 21:55