MELKSHAM'S bid to retain the Wiltshire Senior Cup was halted by an extra-time winner for Highworth Town.

The match had been heading for a penalty shootout when Highworth striker Paul Hunt atoned for a penalty miss in the second half of normal time by firing in a 118th minute winner.

Cup holders Melksham almost bounced back with an immediate equaliser but were denied by a goal-line clearance and it was Highworth who advanced into the next round.

Melksham manager Nigel Tripp was not too downbeat despite seeing his side's participation in the competition cut short.

He said: "We did okay and it was a very even game. Whoever scored first was always going to win it and unfortunately it was Highworth.

"We hit the post and they missed a penalty. If it had been a league game it would have been a draw.

"It was a shame to go out as holders. But the lads didn't let themselves down and we matched Highworth in all departments."

Highworth lost 3-0 at the Conigre in the semi-final last season but Paul Hunt's late goal handed Highworth revenge and put them through to the second round.