Cossham Street, 31 January 2024

Any remaining hopes Royal Wootton Bassett Town had of complementing their push towards the Hellenic League Premier Division playoffs with cup success came to an end as Sam Collier's side exited the Wiseman Lighting Floodlit Cup at the quarter final stage following a 1-0 defeat against Roman Glass St George.

A tight contest in which each team had their chances was ultimately determined by a well taken Lewis Leigh-Gilchrist goal shortly before half time.

Bassett and Roman Glass are both in the hunt for a top five league finish and due to meet in the league on Saturday. Given that it was perhaps little surprise that the two managers decided to shuffle their packs.

While Collier started with captain Adam Corcoran and dynamic attacking duo Alfie Presley and Tommy Ouldridge on the bench, the starting eleven was still a strong one. And they did carve out opportunities during the course of the match.

Those were not converted though. That meant Leigh-Gilchrist - arguably the most dangerous player on the pitch as, in addition to his goal, he forced a great early save from Rob Brown before rattling the woodwork after the restart - proved to be the match winner.

Roman Glass therefore progress - where they will face a favourable semi final draw at home against Hellenic League Division One Abingdon United.

For Bassett it's now all eyes on their final eleven league games - the outcomes of which will decide whether Collier and his team can extend their season and earn a shot at promotion.

Credit: Stuart Smedley
Last modified on Thursday 1st February 2024 at 08:18