Purton FC hustle Highworth Town out of the Challenge Cup (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Purton FC hustle Highworth Town out of the Challenge Cup

HAVING knocked Hellenic Premier Division Tuffley Rovers out of the preliminary round of the Challenge Cup, Division One leaders Purton claimed another Premier League scalp in round one on Saturday, defeating local rivals Highworth Town 2-1 at the Elms.

For Purton fought back and netted twice in the second half with an excellent team display against a Highworth side tipped by many to take the Premier League title this season.

Highworth shaded the first half of this lively encounter with Hunt and Belcher going close and Belcher putting the home side in front after 15 minutes when he fired home from 12 yards following a left-wing cross.

In the second half, though, and despite the home side missing two good headed chances, it was the Red House visitors who took control.

And got back into the game after 57 minutes when a Kenny Hughes corner kick was headed home firmly at the near post by a diving Eurshell Fearon.

Just afterwards, Fearon was just off target with an overhead kick.

A couple of fine runs down the flank by Tom Dingle almost brought other Purton goals as Highworth scrambled the ball away.

In the 85th minute, Purton went 2-1 ahead following a free kick.

Toby Clark dummied twice to take the free kick before finally slipping the ball to Toby Fowler who planted a left-foot 'daisy cutter' under the keeper.

And much to the delight of their travelling supporters, Purton were through.

This was an excellent team performance by Purton who ran the show second half and their entry to the next round of the competition is well merited.