Bishop’s Cleeve manager Paul Collicutt expressed relief as his team returned to winning ways, especially following their heavy 5-0 loss to Portishead. The victory came after a tense GFA Senior Challenge Cup match, where Cleeve triumphed 3-1 in a penalty shoot-out against Bristol Rovers Development.
Goalkeeper Sam Gilder stood out with a man-of-the-match performance, making crucial saves that kept Cleeve in the contest throughout. After a tightly contested first half, the Mitres broke the deadlock early in the second half when Devanti McInerney cleverly crossed the ball for Jack Watts to finish with composure.
Bristol Rovers Development fought back, and a last-minute equalizer from Kian Hill forced the tie into penalties. In the shoot-out, Gilder’s heroics continued as he saved two spot-kicks, while Watts, Curtis Jemmett-Hutson, and Jake Lee converted their penalties to secure Cleeve’s place in the semi-finals.
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During open play, Cleeve’s Jack Watts had one of the first clear chances but volleyed over the bar. Hill impressed for Rovers with a strong run before having his shot blocked. Rovers tested Gilder with sustained pressure, including multiple corner kicks, but the goalkeeper remained steadfast.
Cleeve’s substitutions at half-time injected fresh energy, culminating in the goal that put them ahead. They continued to press for a second goal, with efforts from Toby Holland and Curtis Jemmett-Hutson. However, Rovers remained dangerous, with Jay Horgan firing over from distance.
Despite Cleeve’s dominance late in the match, Hill’s stoppage-time goal ensured the match would be settled on penalties. Gilder’s composure in the shoot-out proved decisive as Cleeve advanced.
Bishop’s Cleeve will next face Brixham AFC in their upcoming league fixture at Kayte Lane this Saturday.
Bishop’s Cleeve lineup: Sam Gilder; Luke Payne, Will Turner (Steve Davies 46), Jake Lee, Josh Nelmes, Matt Liddiard (Joe Keeping 46), Ben McLean (Joe Jeremiah 46), Jack Watts, Ross Langworthy (Toby Holland 46), Harry Leeson (Devanti McInerney 46), Curtis Jemmett-Hutson.
Bristol Rovers Development lineup: Alex Berger; Rocco Suehayer (Ciaren O’Donnell), Charlie White (Lucas Frisby 90), Jack Toogood, Henry De-Long, Excel Iwhiwhu, Tom English, Jay Horgan (Louie Carr 84), Micah Anthony (Trey Cadette), Kian Hill, Wil Turner. Unused substitute: Reuben Moggeridge.
Referee: Dale Wootton
Attendance: 83