Webbswood Stadium, 9 January 2024

Royal Wootton Bassett Town pushed Southern League Premier Division South Swindon Supermarine all the way in an enthralling 1st Office Wiltshire Premier Shield semi final contest. However, Sam Collier's side came up just short, missing out on a final appearance following a 3-2 defeat.

Two goals in a seven minute first half spell ultimately proved Bassett's undoing as Collier and his team were forced to chase a significant deficit against their higher level opponents.

Bassett gave their best, performing well and playing some impressive, flowing football in the second half after having defended deep in their own territory for much of the opening period. In particular, captain and man of the match Adam Corcoran as well as the experienced Chris Taylor and Alan Griffin, stood out as they tried to cajole their team back onto level terms.

Ultimately though it was not to be, with Bassett's sole remaining hope of success on the cup front this season now being the Hellenic League Floodlit Cup where they will face Roman Glass St George in the quarter finals at the end of the month.

Although the first good opportunity of the match fell to Bassett with Sam Packer's powerful drive from the edge of the area forcing Supermarine 'keeper Louis Evans to parry around the post, Supermarine were largely in control of proceedings in the opening half. But, although dominating possession, the hosts lacked any real cutting edge as Bassett's defence offered strong resistance.

They eventually took the lead on the half hour mark though when Henry Spalding volleyed in from a right wing cross. And seven minutes later they doubled their advantage as Ioan Richards' header capped off a good move.

That pair of goals put Bassett in a seemingly deep hole. But they got back into the game on the stroke of half time when Alfie Presley converted from the penalty spot.

And that provided the visitors the fillip they needed to come out in the second half and seek to spring a surprise.

Supermarine certainly didn't enjoy as much of the ball as they had done in the opening period as Bassett upped their game.

An equaliser wasn't forthcoming though, and Mat Liddiard restored Supermarine's two goal advantage as the game entered injury time.

Presley quickly added a second for Bassett. But with little time remaining that was to prove too little, too late.

Facing step three opponents, Bassett were always going to be heavy underdogs. Yet, although always disappointing to exit a competition one game away from the final, Collier and his team can be proud of their performance.

Come full time, Supermarine knew that they had had to work hard for their win, as Bassett once again showed their ability to compete with whoever they face.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Wednesday 10th January 2024 at 06:50