Men's 2XI Vs Corsham

West Wilts travelled the short distance to face local rivals, Corsham. Neighbours in the league table, this was set to be a hard fought game. Wilts were looking to guarantee their promotion with a win and Corsham were looking to reign Wilts in.

The game started with both teams looking a little edgy. Nerves appeared to be having an effect on both teams. Couple the nerves with the gale force winds and both teams were making mistakes and struggling to string together enough passes to make a meaningful attack on the opposition goal. One positive for the spectators though, the game really was end to end. Wilts midfield ‘man of the match’ Cameron Jessup put in the leg work alongside his midfield cohorts to do their best to stem the Corsham attack and spring Wilts forward. Towards the end of the first half Corsham managed the breakthrough and netted to take the lead.

In the second half Chris Warren, in the Wilts defence, took the game by the scruff of the neck. His clear, concise direction added to the energy now being shown by the Wilts midfield to spur their comrades on. Despite difficult conditions, Jessup was able to convert a slingshot from Joe Veacock with a beautifully controlled deflection past the Corsham keeper to level the score. Both teams pushed hard for the win, with Wilts having the main share of possession until the end of the game. Corsham defended valiantly with numbers behind the ball and it worked for them. Wilts were unable to create any meaningful chances or score again. Corsham had the odd breakaway attack but Clive Nash in the Wilts goal had these covered with confidence.

Ultimately a draw was a fair result; both teams worked hard and managed to negate the others attacking play for the majority of the game. Wilts have all but confirmed their promotion (although not guaranteed yet) and play top of the table next week. A win would see Wilts go top and all but secure the division title. It’s going to be a thrilling game at Marlborough!