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Goals from Caitlin Brooks and Kat Bach helped Royal Wootton Bassett Town to a deserved, albeit hard fought, away victory against Stockwood Wanderers.
The result sees Bassett remain in fourth in the South West Regional Women's Football League Division One North. But, given results elsewhere, Bassett closed the gap to third place Cirencester Town while also gaining ground on Bath City and St Vallier - the two sides immediately below them.
Bassett led 1-0 at the break courtesy of Brooks' opener as she took advantage of miscommunication in the Stockwood back line to nip in and guide home an Alice Bowden cross.
Coming midway through the opening half, the goal was somewhat against the run of play after Wanderers had slightly the better of the opening exchanges.
But Bassett gradually grew into the game and were in the ascendancy at the break. The visitors even came close to doubling their advantage when Alice Telling headed narrowly wide from a corner.
Nevertheless it was all still to play for when the teams turned round with Bassett knowing they were in a contest.
But, on a difficult, heavy pitch, Bassett ensured to assert themselves in the second half - though they had to wait for the goals that would make sure of victory.
Maddy Elliott twice came close but was unable to find her range, while Nat Goodright placed wide from the penalty spot after Bach was felled by a push in the back.
Bassett's patience paid off though as Bach headed in from a pinpoint Mia Mugford corner.
She then made it 3-0 in somewhat controversial fashion, taking advantage of Stockwood switching off as they claimed the Bassett forward had handled the ball and steering into the top corner.
A fourth almost arrived too from another Mugford corner but a good save kept out a Bowden effort.
Bassett had done more than enough for the points though - and they'll be looking to further strengthen their league position when St Vallier visit the Sustain Stadium next week.
Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Sunday 2nd February 2025 at 20:14