HIGHWORTH were given a major scare in the Wiltshire Senior Cup before disposing of Wilts League Cricklade 2-1.

The underdogs were 1-0 up at half-time and Highworth had two men sent off, while Cricklade were also reduced to 10 men.

But the Hellenic Premier title contenders dug deep to grind out a result and progress to the semi-finals.

Paul Cooper's curling free-kick cancelled out Cricklade's shock opener and Justin Miller swooped to head home the winner with 15 minutes remaining.

Highworth had Jamie Mills and Wayne Cleverly fairly sent off for raising their arms but John Fisher's men managed to hold on despite the numerical disadvantage.

"We didn't play very well at all," said the Highworth chief.

"But I don't think Cricklade ever really believed they could win even when they went 1-0 up.

"They seemed shellshocked themselves when they took the lead."

Cricklade boss Graham Jackson said: "We were all disappointed at being beaten because at half-time we were a goal up and looking every bit as good as the Hellenic outfit.

"Somehow we failed to get together after the break and an early goal enabled Highworth to get back in the game and add a second.

"I think the game was there for the taking but somehow we fell away.

"Although it was the wrong result for us the lads played well and I can't ask for much more than that."