From what looked like being a complete washout last weekend, things actually turned out far better than expected. If we end up with a hosepipe ban this summer, perhaps it’s time for the Hellenic Lawyers to take on the water companies! Cheltenham today has delivered what feels like four seasons in one day, so let’s hope for a return to some settled, dry weather.
In the Isuzu FA Vase 5th Round last Saturday, Hallen produced an outstanding performance, beating Gornal Athletic 3–0. Harrison Fairman grabbed two of the goals in a superb display that sees Hallen progress to the quarter-finals. They have another home tie on 28th February, which I’ll highlight again in the coming weeks — a great occasion for the club.
In the UHL Premier Division, with several sides involved in cup action, we had three league fixtures last weekend. Corsham Town travelled to in-form Cinderford Town and were beaten 3–1. Tuffley Rovers made the trip to Pershore Town and came away with an impressive 3–0 win, with the ever-reliable Karnell Chambers once again finding the net. Royal Wootton Bassett Town hosted Westfields and continued their steady climb up the table with a convincing 3–0 victory. Longlevens v Cribbs fell victim to Friday’s downpours despite Longlevens’ best efforts to get the game on.
On Tuesday evening, Lydney Town hosted Hereford Pegasus, with Pegasus running out 2–1 winners. Fairford Town travelled to Westfields and continued their own climb up the table with a 2–0 victory. Reports suggest both pitches were in excellent condition despite recent flooding, so huge credit must go to the grounds staff at Lydney and Westfields for their hard work.
In the UHL Challenge Cup, Hereford Pegasus edged past Highworth Town 1–0. Slimbridge made the short trip to Stonehouse Town for a Gloucestershire derby and secured a 3–1 win. Worcester Raiders faced a long journey to Mangotsfield United, with the match finishing 2–2 in normal time before Raiders prevailed 5–3 on penalties.
In the Wiseman Lighting Floodlit Cup on Tuesday, Highworth Town made the long midweek journey to Alcester Town and returned with an emphatic 5–0 win, including a hat-trick from Bonsa Teshome. Cribbs hosted Longlevens but were beaten 3–1.
In UHL Division One, five league matches were played on Saturday. FC Stratford maintained top spot with a 2–0 away win at Ludlow Town. Wantage Town kept up the pressure with a 2–1 home victory over Brimscombe & Thrupp. Malmesbury Victoria were narrowly beaten 3–2 by Clanfield 85 in a five-goal thriller. Cheltenham Saracens drew 2–2 with Thame United Reserves, with Thame equalising in the 88th minute. Wellington enjoyed a welcome 4–1 win over Chipping Sodbury Town. Redditch Borough v Bewdley Town was postponed.
In the UHL Supplementary Challenge Cup, Shortwood and Hungerford Town Reserves drew 1–1 before Shortwood triumphed 4–2 on penalties. In midweek, Marlow Reserves beat Thame United Reserves 3–1.
Finally, in the Batemans Sports Alliance Challenge Cup, Evesham United Reserves hosted Banbury United Development but were beaten 7–1.
Let’s hope for a full programme and plenty of football to enjoy this weekend.