Sustain Stadium, Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 6 January 2024

If you can't win, don't lose. Royal Wootton Bassett Town did just that as Sam Collier's side came from behind to earn a hard fought point against a strong Cinderford Town side and further bolster their hopes of reaching the Hellenic League Premier Division playoffs.

Three wins in a row over Christmas had lifted Cinderford into contention for a playoff position - and, as expected, they provided a tough test for Bassett.

A closely fought first half eventually ended goalless. But it was Cinderford who came out the stronger after the restart and their pressure eventually paid off when solid build up play from Charlie and Adam Davies set up Ethan Hayes, who got the better of Rob Brown in the Bassett goal.

Their lead last all of five minutes though as substitute Ben Dodd shed his marker and guided a Tommy Ouldridge corner into the back of the net with an assured close range header.

That set up a tense finish. And Bassett were handed a potentially crucial advantage when Kerry Morgan was sin binned for the visitors shortly after his introduction off the bench.

That almost paid off when Luke Softley rose highest to meet another Ouldridge corner, but his glancing header was hacked off the line by Ismail Yakubu who found himself in the right place at the right time at the far post.

Ultimately neither side was able to find a winner - but the draw nonetheless represented satisfactory outcome for the hosts.

With Worcester City and Corsham Town both winning, Bassett did lose ground on the top two. But that Collier and his team find themselves in pole position in the race to finish behind the two runaway favourites - a spot that would guarantee a home playoff fixture - reflects on how well Bassett have played so far this season.

And defeats for Pershore Town and Roman Glass St George served to strengthen Bassett's position. Bassett now hold a four point lead over the latter with a game in hand over both still to play. Meanwhile nine points separates Bassett from Highworth Town - the team who currently occupy the first spot outside of the playoff positions.

There's still a long way to go and plenty of football to play. Yet Bassett's resilience and ability to grind out results has them in a very good place.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Sunday 7th January 2024 at 08:47