Noah Rubio’s two goals propelled Bishop’s Cleeve to a hard-fought 2-1 victory at Brixham on Tuesday night, lifting them back into play-off positions in the Southern League Division One South despite challenging conditions. After conceding the opener to Aaron Wellington in the 38th minute, Cleeve responded early in the second half with Rubio converting a remarkable free-kick. The comeback was sealed when substitute Reegan Messenger set up Rubio to finish low into the corner in the 72nd minute.
Their momentum continued on Saturday with a 3-0 win at bottom side Tavistock, thanks to two goals by Ross Langworthy and one by Harry Williams. Williams opened the scoring just eight minutes in, assisted by Jay Malshanskyj, who also set up Langworthy for the third goal.
Elsewhere, Hartpury’s slim play-off hopes took a hit as they succumbed 3-0 to Falmouth Town at home. The visitors took control with goals from Rubin Wilson, Luke Barnes, and Oliver Walker, the latter producing a stunning left-footed strike.
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In Hellenic League Premier Division action, Slimbridge surged to the top with Jack W Smith’s hat-trick guiding them to a 3-2 win over Corsham Town on Tuesday. They followed up with a 2-0 victory against Thornbury Town. Cirencester Town claimed the final play-off slot after a commanding 4-0 win at Hereford Pegasus despite playing most of the match with 10 men.
Fairford Town earned a 1-1 draw against Pershore Town, and Cinderford Town fell 3-1 to Worcester Raiders. Lydney Town made a managerial change, appointing Richard Goodwin and Jordi Sheen for the rest of the campaign. Sheen scored in their 2-2 draw with Droitwich Spa.
Stonehouse Town advanced to the GFA Challenge Trophy final after a 2-0 semi-final triumph over Longlevens, while Cheltenham Saracens climbed to fourth in Division One following a 3-1 win at Redditch Borough.
In the County League, Sharpness maintained a slender lead at the summit with a 5-1 victory over Cribbs Reserves. Filton Athletic rose to second with a win over Bromley Heath. Bishop’s Cleeve Development thrived with a debatable 5-1 win over Chalford, and Brimscombe & Thrupp continued their strong form with wins over Clanfield 85 and Woodford United.
Northern Senior League leaders Whaddon United rallied for a 4-2 comeback victory over Dursley Town. Longlevens Reserves, English Bicknor, Charfield, and Cheltenham Civil Service all secured positive results, strengthening their positions in their respective divisions.
In women’s football, Cheltenham Town fought back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 against AFC Wimbledon in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier. Torquay United snatched a late equaliser to deny Forest Green Rovers a win, and Gloucester City drew 4-4 with AEK Boco.
City of Gloucester secured a spot in the GFA Women’s Challenge Cup final with a dominant 7-1 semi-final win over North Bristol Wanderers, setting up a final against Cheltenham Civil Service.
Other notable women’s results included Dursley Town earning a 2-2 draw with league leaders Bristol Brunel, Hartpury and Cheltenham Saracens drawing 1-1, and Bishop’s Cleeve holding onto third place with a late 1-0 win at Longlevens. Newent Town secured a comprehensive 5-0 league win, while other clubs like Cheltenham Spa, Mitcheldean SC, and Lydney Town posted significant victories in the lower divisions.
These results underscore a vibrant week across men’s and women’s football in the Southern, Hellenic, County, and Northern Senior leagues, highlighting fierce competition and key moments that will shape the winding seasons ahead.