Bassett spot on to shock Bluebirds

Royal Wootton Bassett Town made the most of their second chance in the Wiltshire Premier Shield, recording an upset victory against Chippenham Town to advance to the final four for a second season in a row.

After the tie finished 1-1 after 90 minutes, Bassett held their nerve in the penalty shootout, scoring all of their spot kicks to triumph 4-2.

Bassett performed well against their National League South hosts, whose side - a mix of first teamers and Academy talent - dominated possession but lacked penetration.

Sam Collier's side did have to come from behind though as Chippenham took an early lead, Mal Nicholls firing beyond debutant 'keeper James Smallcombe after build up play involving former Bassett youth player Jake Evans and Pele Kouisseoue.

Smallcombe didn't let conceding that goal get to him though and proved a tough nut for Chippenham to crack the rest of the night.

The 'keeper was on hand to block from Pele Kouisseoue to keep the score at 1-0.

Then, midway through the half, Bassett were level. Home 'keeper Luke Avenell flapped at a hanging Henry Spalding corner and Tommy Ouldridge was alert to bundle home from a couple of yards out.

Chippenham did create more chances, but they failed to find another breakthrough. Harlee Vozza headed over a cross from ex-Bassett man Caine Bradbury shortly after the equaliser, with Smallcombe equal to efforts from Vozza and Darren McAlastair later in the half break. Smallcombe then continued his assured night following the restart, denying Kouisseoue and Bradbury.

The game did fizzle out somewhat as the hosts rang the changes, including giving a debut to 16 year old - and former Bassett youth section star - Liam Lye-Owens.

And with no further goals forthcoming, penalties were required.

Chippenham had first kick in the shootout with Bradbury converting before Spalding levelled. McAlastair and Finn Hopkins then both scored to make it 2-2.

But it was soon to be advantage Bassett as Nicholls struck the bar with Bailey Gallagher putting the visitors in front.

Smallcombe then continued his impressive night, saving from Vozza before Jack Hobson-McVeigh coolly wrapped up victory.

Bassett will be joined in the semi finals by Swindon Supermarine - who narrowly beat Collier's side to reach the final last season, Bemerton Heath Harlequins and either Salisbury or Melksham Town.

There is therefore the chance to knock out another higher level opponent - and reach a first cup final since Bassett's 2000-01 Wiltshire Senior Cup triumph.