Late drama as Bassett pick up Pegasus point

A drama-filled final few minutes saw Royal Wootton Bassett Town come close to grabbing a late victory away at Hereford Pegasus only for the hosts to score a stoppage time equaliser - and then go close themselves to snatching a winner.

Although taking Bassett back into the top five of the Hellenic League Premier Division, the draw represents the third consecutive frustrating outcome that Sam Collier and his side have had to settle for over a festive period that has seen them claim two points from nine.

With a bit more luck - and perhaps a tiny bit more quality - that tally could have been higher over the course of what has been a busy few days.

Despite both side's having had chances, Bassett's latest New Year's Day visit to Hereford appeared as though it was destined to end goalless.

An 87th minute red card for the hosts' Sam Gwynn - received for a second bookable offence - changed matters though.

And Bassett quickly took advantage of having an extra man as, after Pegasus were only able to half clear from a cross, the ball fell to Jack Hobson-McVeigh on the edge of the area and the New Zealander swept home into the bottom corner.

With just stoppage time left to play, Bassett would have hoped that was enough for victory.

But it wasn't to be. Pegasus earned a 91st minute corner, which was played short, catching Bassett off guard. And the ball was played in for Jordan Williamson to divert home.

Moments later Williamson almost won it as he found himself through on goal. However - much to Bassett's relief - he somehow managed to place his attempted lob over the bar.

A draw was arguably a fair result in a game between two sides who, on the day, were evenly matched.

Early on Dan Grieve came close for Bassett, dragging wide when well placed.

At the other end, Williamson forced a save from James Foster while Carlos Moreira narrowly guided wide from a Gwynne cross.

The best chance of the second half - up until the late drama - fell to Noah Coates who headed wide from close range.

For Pegasus the lively Williamson forced another decent low save from Foster, though would have been better served to square to his teammate for what would have been a simple finish.

Bassett are now back in the playoff places. But Highworth Town, who they climbed above, and Fairford Town can both go ahead if they take advantage of their games in hand.

Next up are two crucial games against fellow contenders - and two of the three teams immediately above Bassett - Sporting Club Inkberrow and Roman Glass St George.

Having got into the habit of drawing (three of Bassett's last five matches have ended all square after having drawn just one of their opening 22 games), Collier and his side will now seek to re-establish a winning habit.