Cirencester League Div One

Ashton Keynes 4

South Cerney 2

ASHTON KEYNES returned to winning ways with a win in the local derby over South Cerney.

Ashton took the lead in the first minute when Dean Wilson drilled a shot into the bottom corner.

They went 2-0 up with a fantastic team goal. The ball was played over the top, Wilson showed first strength to hold off a defender and then composure to play in Barnaby Chadwick, who curled the ball into the top corner.

It was Chadwick and Wilson who linked up again for the third before half-time, Wilson curling a pinpoint cross and Chadwick rising to direct his header into the far corner.

Great defending by Chris Robinson and Rob Watson in the centre of defence kept most Cerney attacks at bay, with Brad James making some good saves when called upon.

In addition, Stephen Pitt and Gregor Pilkington worked well in stopping the Cerney wingers and found room to support the front three.

In the second half Ashton had many chances to extend their lead but were not clinical in their finishing.

Nick Gregory, however, scored Ashton's fourth with a fine half-volley from outside the box.

The midfield trio of Chris Field, Delroy Fallon and Mike Blackwell worked extremely well as a unit and won both the first and second balls all game in midfield.

A couple of injuries resulted in some Ashton changes and Cerney pulled two goals back – a superb half-volley finish from 30 yards and an excellent glancing header.

Ashton didn't look like conceding any further goals and should have scored more themselves in the final 10 minutes.

They will now bid to win their games in hand to finish third in the table.

MoM: Barnaby Chadwick.

Ashton Keynes play South Cerney again in the Alexcars Senior Charities Cup semi-final on Tuesday, April 5 at Fairford Town FC.