Shortwood United 4 Henbury 1 –Gloucestershire Trophy1st Round

 

Shortwood went through to the 2nd round of the Gloucestershire Trophy after this, ultimately, comfortable win over County League outfit Henbury. Manager Evans was pleased with the improved performance of his side after their defeat at Wooton Bassett on Saturday. To their credit Henbury played good football throughout and deserved their goal even though it was no more than a consolation effort.

Both sides swapped chances in the first few minutes before Wood had the bonus of an own goal after 16 minutes – the unfortunate Dunkley diverting Ben Pugh’s driven cross past his own keeper, Winkler. Henbury then enjoyed their best period with Pearce making a double save and watching helplessly as a diverted effort shot across his goal and wide. Gradually Wood reasserted themselves and had chances before the break. Only Winkler stood between them and a commanding lead as he denied Jody Taylor, twice, and Pugh.

It only took Wood 5 minutes of the second half to double the score. A fine move ended with Ben Pugh sliding home Jamie Singh’s low cross. After 71 minutes Mike Green put Jamie Singh in and when his fierce shot was parried Jody Taylor was on hand to shoot home the rebound. With the game safe John Evans took the opportunity to rest players for Saturday’s tough away trip to Hungerford.  Shortwood’s flow was not disrupted, however, and they continued to press forward. Andy Hoskins hit the bar and John Embling forced Winkler into another save before Henbury broke away to score – Barnes raced through to shoot home off the post.

Hoskins was unmarked to head home Mike Green’s corner with 13 minutes to go and although that was the final goal Winkler’s work was not finished as he denied Taylor and Hoskins again before the end.

Team: Pearce, Kavanagh, Embling (Clarke), Steadman, Mammola, Cant, Singh (Payton), Mike Green, Taylor, Hoskins, Pugh (Roberts)