While pushing their opponents all the way, Royal Wootton Bassett Town were unable to end the 100% record of South West Regional Women's Football League Division One North leaders Gloucester City as Adam Wood's side fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat.

Gloucester arrived at the Sustain Stadium in imperious form having won all five of their opening league fixtures, including ten-goal victories in each of their last two outings.

Bassett, fresh off their impressive win away at Bath City, therefore knew they'd have to be at their best to get anywhere close to taking something from the game.

Although putting a fine display, Bassett ultimately came up just short as they were left to rue missed chances in the second half that allowed Gloucester to sneak away with all three points.

The teams were evenly matched in the first half and it was little surprise that the teams went into the interval all square at 1-1.

The visitors had the first real chance of the match when Chloe Golding was played through only to be denied by a great save from Millie Powell.

Powell was then alert to keep out Sachiko Kaneko-Grun though would soon be beaten when the Gloucester forward was afforded a second opportunity to beat the Bassett 'keeper.

The remainder of the half then saw Bassett create the better openings.

And, after Honor Fraser saw an effort deflected wide, they were soon on level terms.

Neat interplay with strike partner Maddy Elliott resulted in Kat Bach finishing confidently on the turn to equalise.

Bassett then came close to taking the lead just before the break when Bach drew a foul in a dangerous area. However Alice Telling's free kick was narrowly over.

Gloucester would restore their lead shortly before the hour though as a corner fell to Kamissa Stichter who made no mistake from close range.

After a Powell save ensured the score remained 2-1, Bassett fashioned a pair of excellent opportunities.

Substitute Caitlin Brooks almost made an instant impact as she shot straight at Sam Linteo following an Elliott layoff.

Hannah Gulliver then headed just off target from an Elliott cross.

Kaneko-Grun almost made it 3-1 late on, hitting the post after seizing on a mix up between Powell and Mia Sanghara.

Having survived that let off, Bassett pushed for a late leveller. But it was not forthcoming as Gloucester, having been forced to work hard for victory. made it a perfect six from six.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Sunday 3rd November 2024 at 19:32