Sustain Stadium, Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 22 August 2023

Bailey Gallagher scored the only goal of the game as Royal Wootton Bassett Town made it three wins from three to begin their Hellenic League Premier Division campaign with a 1-0 home victory against Mangotsfield United.

Gallagher struck in first half stoppage time. Neat interplay down the left side involving Louis Spalding, Sam Packer, Chris Taylor and Matt Jones led to the latter whipping in a low cross which - catching the defence off guard - found Gallagher at the far post and he produced a cool first time finish into the bottom corner for what proved to be enough in a tight, intriguing match.

The two teams had met just over a fortnight ago in the Emirates FA Cup, with Mangotsfield taking the honours on that occasion, triumphing 2-0.

Despite the scoreline, that meeting was a close contest. And the opening league fixture between the teams proved much the same.

This time, however, there would be a different outcome. A stern defensive display offered little to the visitors - who sought to push forward in numbers in the second half, while Gallagher did enough at the opposite end to ensure Bassett'a perfect start to their league season continued.

The aim now is to extend that winning streak - and the bank holiday weekend presents the perfect opportunity to do so and also to make a statement of intent with Collier and his side hosting Hereford Pegasus on Saturday before Monday's derby date away at Highworth Town.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Wednesday 23rd August 2023 at 21:06