Sustain Stadium, Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 16 January 2024

Royal Wootton Bassett Town's home fixture against Tuffley Rovers survived the deep freeze - and Sam Collier's side proceeded to produce an ice cool performance to earn another important three points.

Bailey Gallagher scored the only goal of the game on the hour mark as Bassett saw off their spirited opponents.

Gallagher helped the ball home after Scott Chilcott, invited forward by the space in the visitors' defence, advanced towards and lifted a shot over advancing 'keeper Luke Merchant as Bassett's fine run of form continued.

While a game of limited chances, on balance it was a deserved win for Bassett who had the better of those opportunities.

Rovers had been on a good run themselves and, in uncomfortable playing conditions, put up a competitive fight.

But for the fifth time in their last six league meetings, Bassett were able to squeak out a win by a single goal margin.

Next up it's Hellenic League Premier Division title favourites Worcester City at the Sustain Stadium. And, incredibly, Bassett can close the gap to their points to just a single point if they win.

Collier's team may have played three games more than City, but what an incentive to go out and get another result as Bassett's playoff push continues.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Tuesday 16th January 2024 at 22:35