DAVE Turner gave an angry half-time team talk that inspired Wootton Bassett to a stunning comeback against local rivals Malmesbury.
Bassett trailed 2-0 at the break following effort from Ed Wilkins and Chris Salt, but emotive words from boss Turner proved the catalyst for an incredible turnaround.
Liam Edmondson, Matty Bown, Ethan Delaney and Alex Green all found the net to make it 4-2 to the hosts, before Bassett’s James Blake was sent off for violent conduct late on.
“I don’t think you could print it,” said Turner, when questioned as to the content of his half-time speech.
Wilkins put Vics in front on 17 minutes and when Salt struck midway through the first period, Simon Winstone’s side were well on course to do the league double over Bassett.
However, eight minutes into the second half, defender Liam Edmondson netted his second goal of the season and midfielder Bown got the equaliser just after the hour.
Malmesbury were beginning to flag and Delaney put them ahead for the first time on 68 minutes, before veteran Green put the result beyond doubt.
Blake was dismissed for a headbutt in the closing seconds, which Turner admitted was deserved.
“James headbutted him so he should have been sent off,” said the boss.
“It was just a shame the referee missed the elbow from their player as well.”
Elsewhere in Division One West, Purton’s title hopes disappeared after they drew 1-1 at home to Hook Norton.
Nick McCrae opened the scoring just after the half hour mark before Chris Tillcock equalised from the penalty spot three minutes after the break.
Tytherington secured the title after winning 2-0 at Carterton.
Cirencester Dev lost 1-0 against Clanfield at the Corinium while Gio Wrona struck twice for New College - once from the spot - as they drew 2-2 with high-flying Old Woodstock.
In the Hellenic Premier, two first-half goals secured Highworth a 2-0 victory Binfield.
Dan Hilder opened the scoring in the 28th minute and Josh Parsons added another moments before the break.
Struggling Fairford were unable to gain any ground on those above them after losing 2-0 at Wokingham & Emmbrook.
Adam Cornell (2) and Luke Lee were on the mark inside the opening 35 minutes to ensure a comfortable win for the hosts.
Shrivenham had no game scheduled this weekend.
Attention now turns to Tuesday night where Highworth face Calne in the WIlts Senior Cup semis and Shrivenham and Wootton Bassett are also in action.
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