Presley picks apart Brimscombe with first half hat trick

Sustain Stadium, Gerard Buxton Sports Ground, 6 August 2024

Royal Wootton Bassett Town got off the mark in the 2024-25 Hellenic League Premier Division with a 4-0 victory against early strugglers Brimscombe and Thrupp.

Alfie Presley led the way for Bassett, scoring a first half hat trick as Sam Collier's side found their attacking groove.

For Brimscombe, the result represents a second heavy league defeat in a row. A management change in preseason set back their preparations, and the Lilywhites opened with an 8-0 loss against Malmesbury Victoria. While busy strengthening their squad in the last week, Bassett still proved too much for their visitors on a night when the home side were in control throughout.

That level of control was largely thanks to last season's top scorer Presley, who opened his account for the season and then some.

Presley opened the scoring early from open play before netting from a pair of penalties awarded in quick succession midway through the opening period.

Tyrone Tucker-Dixon then made it 4-0 late in the second half.

After last week's heavy opening day defeat against Fairford Town, the cup win against Mangotsfield United and this victory against Brimscombe represent the response Bassett needed.

There will certainly be tougher tests to come - the upcoming home fixtures against Mangotsfield and Roman Glass St George being two of them. But, after last week's loss, Bassett can get to seven or even nine points by this time next week, that will represent a decent haul from their opening homestand.