Bishop’s Cleeve manager Paul Collicutt issued a heartfelt apology to the travelling supporters after their 3–1 defeat to Westbury United on Tuesday night. “We’ve let ourselves down, we’ve let the supporters down and the players have let me down,” he admitted.
Westbury took control early, with Ryan Bole scoring twice. His first goal came inside five minutes off an accurate cross from Aaron Witchell, and he doubled the lead shortly after, capitalizing on a lapse in marking. Samuel Francis sealed the victory for the home side with a tap-in just before halftime following a saved header from Bole.
The Mitres did manage a late consolation through Harry Leeson, who tucked away a penalty rebound after Joel Butler initially saved Ross Langworthy’s spot-kick. Yet, the effort wasn’t enough to overturn the result.
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Despite suffering only their second league defeat of the season and sitting sixth with games in hand over the teams above, Collicutt sounded a warning: “It means nothing if we put in performances like that.” He emphasized the need for more committed displays ahead, particularly as Bishop’s Cleeve prepare to host Exmouth Town on Saturday.
The match saw Westbury’s Bevan Cross create several dangerous opportunities down the right wing, while Bishop’s Cleeve struggled to capitalize on set-pieces and early chances from players like Devanti McInerney and Ben McLean. The game grew scrappier in the second half, with fewer clear chances as both teams fought hard.
Bishop’s Cleeve remain just one point shy of the playoff places, as Malvern Town occupy the fifth spot. Collicutt stressed the importance of bouncing back and delivering a stronger performance for the remaining fixtures.
Lineups:
Bishop’s Cleeve: Clayton, Payne (Liddiard 57), Turner (Keeping 57), Lee, Nelmes, Holland (Leeson 46), McLean, Watts, Langworthy, Davies (Jeremiah 72), McInerney (Jemmett-Hutson 57).
Westbury United: Butler, Cockerill, Restorick, Witcombe, Francis (Hulbert 67), Bole, A. Witchell (Selwood 42), Starr (E. Witchell 71), Cross, Jordan, Jenkins (Sutherland 77). Subs not used: Hulbert.
Referee: Craig Scriven.
Attendance: 152.