Bishop’s Cleeve claimed a vital 2-0 victory over Westbury United at Kayte Lane on Saturday, ending a run of two consecutive defeats and boosting their position in the league. Manager Paul Collicutt described the win as “very important” for the Mitres.
The breakthrough came when Toby Holland delivered a precise ball from the left flank, allowing Harry Williams to strike the ball low into the bottom left corner, marking his first goal for the club. Williams, along with fellow recent signing Zack Kotwica from Hungerford Town, have been brought in to bolster the attack. Collicutt emphasized the expectation on both players to find the net regularly, expressing satisfaction with Williams’ performance.
Westbury threatened with a penalty in the 60th minute after Bradley Selwood set up Akeem Stewart, who was fouled from behind by Jake Lee. However, Bevan Cross failed to convert, sending the spot-kick over the bar and keeping the scoreline level.
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Bishop’s Cleeve extended their lead thanks to a stunning strike from substitute Reegan Messenger. After receiving a lay-off from Holland, Messenger unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box that ricocheted into the bottom corner, effectively sealing the match.
The game was not without controversy, as Collicutt was sent off late in the match following a dispute on the pitch. The Cleeve boss commented on the refereeing as “iffy for both sides” but remains uncertain about his return to the touchline.
In the first half, Bishop’s Cleeve created several chances, with Holland notably sending a long ball to captain Ross Langworthy, who unfortunately couldn’t capitalize one-on-one with the keeper. Williams also came close, with a shot narrowly missing the target as the half ended goalless.
Looking ahead, Bishop’s Cleeve will travel to face Brixham AFC on Tuesday at 7:45 pm before returning home to play Malvern Town at Kayte Lane next Saturday at 3 pm.
Bishop’s Cleeve lineup: Clayton, Lee (Turner 83), Nelmes, Liddiard, Holland (Keeping 83), McLean (Messenger 54), Williams (Jeremiah 83), Langworthy (McInerney 54), Malshanskyj, Davies, Kotwica.
Westbury United lineup: Manning, Hulbert, Restorick, Selwood, Stewart, A Witchell (Jenkins 69), Starr (Witcombe 45), E Witchell (Taylor 85), Cross, Fleming, Jordan.
Match referee: Zak Demetriades.