Saturday 17 January delivered a full menu of non-league entertainment across the Isuzu FA Vase and the Hellenic League, with penalty shoot-out drama, emphatic league victories and no shortage of goals — all watched by a combined 1,555 supporters who braved January conditions to back their sides.
And if you ever needed 1,555 reasons to come and watch the Hellenic League, this was it: action packed with drama, great goals, epic saves and just a tiny touch of referee controversy — the good kind that keeps everyone talking on the way home. Give us this any day over the so-called top flight.
FA Vase: Nerves of Steel Required
There was knockout tension in the Isuzu FA Vase, starting at Downton where 190 spectators were treated to a goalless stalemate between the hosts and Slimbridge. Clear chances were at a premium, and with neither side able to break through, penalties were required. Downton kept their composure to edge the shoot-out 4–3 and book their place in the next round — goalkeepers and heart-rate monitors earning their keep.
Hallen and Hythe & Dibden served up a similar script in front of 110 fans. Harrison Fairman put Hallen ahead shortly after the break, only for Harrison Clarke to respond almost immediately for the visitors. With the scores locked at 1–1, it was once again down to penalties, where Hallen proved the cooler customers, winning 4–2 from the spot.
Premier Division: Big Wins and Big Statements
In the Hellenic Premier Division, Cirencester Town were in ruthless form, dismantling Westfields 5–1. Harlie Price stole the headlines with four goals, supported by strikes from Zac Powell and Theo Jeremy, as 148 supporters watched a second-half blitz that left little doubt about the outcome.
The biggest crowd of the day — 259 strong — was at Droitwich Spa, though the home supporters endured a tough afternoon as Cinderford Town ran out 4–0 winners. Jack Watts helped himself to a second-half brace, underlining a dominant away performance.
Corsham Town did their damage early at Hereford Pegasus, with Nick McCoottie netting twice before half-time. From there, Corsham managed the game well to secure a 2–0 victory in front of 65 spectators.
Mangotsfield United claimed a solid 2–0 home win over Fairford Town, breaking the deadlock after the hour before sealing the points late on. A disciplined performance watched by 233 fans.
Pershore Town and Cribbs shared the spoils in a competitive 1–1 draw. Cribbs led through Kieran Clayton, but Pershore showed resilience, with Jamie Lucas grabbing a late equaliser to earn a point in front of 119 in attendance.
Tuffley Rovers and Royal Wootton Bassett Town produced one of the games of the day, with the visitors edging a 3–2 thriller. Goals flew in at both ends, keeping the 118-strong crowd fully entertained and goalkeepers permanently on edge.
Worcester Raiders made home advantage count, defeating Lydney Town 3–1. Goals in both halves ensured a deserved win, with 112 spectators watching Raiders continue their positive run.
Division One: Clinical Finishing on Display
In Division One, Bewdley Town were efficient and controlled in a 2–0 win over Chipping Sodbury Town, scoring once in each half to secure the points in front of 62 supporters.
FC Stratford delivered one of the standout performances of the afternoon, sweeping aside Cheltenham Saracens 4–0. Toby Nichol was in devastating form, helping himself to a hat-trick as 61 fans enjoyed a comfortable home victory.
Malmesbury Victoria were equally convincing on the road, defeating Ludlow Town 4–0. Lewis-James Bexton-Shaw bagged a hat-trick, ensuring the visitors left with maximum points — and the Ludlow goalkeeper left with plenty to think about — watched by 40 spectators.
Newent Town completed the day’s action with an impressive 4–1 away win at Wellington. After falling behind early, Newent responded emphatically with four goals of their own, turning the game on its head in front of 38 supporters.
📊 By the Numbers
Across 13 played fixtures, a total of:
1,555 spectators
turned out to support local football — proof once again that the Hellenic League delivers week in, week out. Drama, goals, saves, stories… and you’re close enough to hear the shouts from the dugouts. What more do you want?
Written by: AI (with a touch of human help!)
Cover Photo: Pete Kinsella