Royal Wootton Bassett Town's superb run of form continued with a hard fought and deserved 2-1 victory against Cinderford Town in the battle of the Hellenic League Premier Division's form sides.

Both teams entered the game looking to extend fantastic runs. Bassett came into the match with the best record in the league over their last ten games while Cinderford were unbeaten in six games since December, a change of manager having made a big difference for the Foresters.

It would end up being the hosts who maintained their hot streak though - much to the disappointment of the visitors who weren't happy with their defeat.

After a stop-start opening to the game, Cinderford eventually got on top.

But, as it had done in consecutive 3-0 wins against Lydney Town and Westfields, the home defence stood strong.

Bassett had a slice of luck on 15 minutes. Callum Godfrey and Ciaran Walsh both went for the same ball following right back Adam Davies' delivery into the box, leaving the 'keeper out of position. But Jack Watts' snap volley from ten yards out rattled the bar with Bassett eventually able to clear.

Aside from that moment though, Cinderford failed to convert their pressure into meaningful chances.

And shortly after the half hour mark Bassett drew blood. The quick strike counter attack has been Bassett's forte in recent weeks - and it delivered success again.

Walsh won possession on the edge of his own penalty area with a perfectly timed tackle. The ball broke for his central defensive partner Jack Coward who strode forward and clipped a fine pass over the top of the Cinderford defence for Ben Cleary to run onto. Cleary then chopped inside Ben Vine before coolly stroking past Lewis Adams.

Cinderford pulled level five minutes later as Watts delicately headed a Harry Leeson cross into the net via the underside of the bar from ten yards out.

Although parity was restored it didn't last long. George Cook teased in a corner from the right side and, stealing a march on his marker, Rudi Hopkins glanced a near post header that nestled into the bottom left corner for his tenth goal of the season - and eighth in as many games.

The second half saw Cinderford again frustrated by a stoic Bassett defence. They again applied plenty of pressure - even when briefly down to ten me as Watts was sin binned - but failed to really trouble the Bassett goal.

Their best opportunity fell to Kian Davies who stung Godfrey's palms with a free kick on the hour.

And Bassett almost grabbed a third late on when TJ Bohane shot on the turn from the edge of the area, seeing his low effort tipped away by an outstretched Adams.

A professional, mature display enabled Bassett to see the game out as they continued on their upward trajectory.

From having appeared destined to be in a relegation scrap, the top half is now within touching distance for Jonny Aitkenhead's young guns.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Saturday 21st February 2026 at 21:42