Case of the jitters for Highworth's title hopes (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Case of the jitters for Highworth's title hopes

HIGHWORTH'S dream of being crowned Premier League Champions has, in the last two away matches, begun to take on the semblance of a nightmare.

For in Saturday's 1-0 loss at Fairford's Cinder Lane ground. Highworth producing probably their poorest performance of the season.

With the midfield failing to come to grips with the demands of the game, and even failing to convert a penalty kick, the visitors completed a goalless league game for only the third time this season.

At the same time, their rivals for the championship, Didcot Town, continued with their winning way.

This leaves the Town requiring the co-operation of Didcot's remaining opponents, such as Abingdon Utd, Carterton Town and Saturday's victors Fairford, to take points from Didcot.

For their part, Highworth must defeat Pegasus Juniors at home and Wootton Bassett Town away.

If this somewhat doubtful scenario fails to materialise, Highworth will remain as runners-up for the second time during their sojourn in the Premier Division.

If so, they will fail to realise manager John Fisher's prediction of Highworth winning the title. Will it be a case of so near and yet so far?

Highworth Town: Elliot Jackson, Steve Richardson, Kevin Coles (Cleverley (Reeves)), Mark O'Hara (Saye), Andy Minturn, Ross Adams, Mark Belcher, Sean Terry, Phil Corcoran, Justin Miller, Paul Cooper. Subs: Matty Saye, Jon Reeves, Wayne Cleverley.

For this Saturday's local derby, Highworth visit Wootton Bassett, 3pm ko.