AFC Totton
BASINGSTOKE WIN BANK HOLIDAY BACK-AND-FORTH
Basingstoke Town enjoyed an eventful 3-2 victory over Hampshire rivals AFC Totton in front of a bumper Bank Holiday crowd of 1,003.
The visitors started more strongly, and should have taken the lead when Alfie Stanley could only scuff his shot from 8 yards out. Basingstoke grew into the game and nearly took the lead midway through the first half with Bradley Wilson’s shot rattling the crossbar. The hosts then took the lead in the 39th minute, Daniel ROWE flicking home from a free-kick. Totton hit back before the break from their own set piece, thanks to Sam MAGRI’s diving header.
The second half began in a frantic fashion, and it took just three minutes for Basingstoke to go back in front, Ben COOK firing in from the edge of the area. Their advantage lasted only a minute, with the Stags going straight down the other end from the kick-off when Alfie STANLEY drilled a shot into the bottom corner. Having pegged the hosts back, Totton had the bulk of possession but were unable to find a way through and were duly punished. Basingstoke broke forward through the diagonals, and Bradley Wilson headed across goal where George REID bundled over at the back post.
Jordan Ragguette fired a 35-yarder against the bar as Totton pressed for another equaliser, but in the end Basingstoke defended wholeheartedly and saw out the hard fought victory for the three points.
Final Score: Basingstoke Town 3-2 AFC Totton
Star Player: Luis Le Paih (Basingstoke Town)
Entertainment Value: 5/5
Attendance: 1,003
Author: Benjamin Rees
