CHIPPENHAM TOWN claimed a confidence boosting 4-0 win over local rivals Swindon Supermarine in the Wiltshire Premier Shield semi-final last night, with a host of candidates for the vacant Bluebirds' managerial position looking on.

Three goals in five minutes before the interval effectively killed the first leg tie with the likes of Steve White, Frank Gregan, Darren Perrin and Geoff Butler watching from the stands.

A petulant Dave Slattery sending off and a fourth goal from Scott Walker after the break compounded understrength Marine's miserable trip to Hardenhuish Park.

The Bluebirds broke the deadlock after an even first 17 minutes.

Martin Paul screwed a shot wide wide with only keeper Tom King to beat but Charlie Griffin quickly atoned on his teammate's behalf with a delightful 20-yard lob.

Andy Robertson doubled the advantage three minutes later with his first goal for the club.

The centre half challenged King in the air before hooking the loose ball into an unguarded net from eight yards.

A third goal soon arrived as caretaker boss Adie Mings scampered down the left flank and crossed low for Walker to convert.

The second period was a non starter until Slattery received his marching orders on the hour for a needless kick on Nathan Edwards.

Mings responded by pushing the Marine midfielder three times but escaped any punishment as Slattery was dismissed.

Paul was then frustrated by two superb King saves. The first a tip over from a looping header and the second a reflex block from a first-time 10-yard strike.

But the hosts made the extra man count with 10 minutes remaining when Walker latched on to a loose ball on the edge of the box and swept home a sweet half volley.

Marine manager Ray Baverstock threatened to ring the changes after a disappointing display.

He said: "I thought we would come here for a local derby and put on a better show.

"They got three goals in the space of five minutes and that killed us.

"We've had a man sent off in the second half and deservedly so our discipline let's us down at times and lets the club down.

"Our attitude wasn't right and that will be reflected in some of the selections for Saturday.''

In the Hellenic Premier Division last night, Fairford beat Abingdon 4-1.

In the Screwfix Direct Western League's Les Phillips Cup first round, Corsham Town had an excellent 2-1 win at Keynsham with goals from Russell Lodge and Nigel Curtis.

The Plaister Autos Wiltshire league representative side were narrowly beaten at Yate last night 2-1 by the Gloucester County League in the second round of the FA National League System Cup.

Aheader from Trowbridge Town's Mike Little put the Wiltshire side ahead midway through the first half, Mark Lippiat equalising a few minutes before the break.

And with just seven minutes remaining O'Niell Martin was on hand to score from a rebound to give the Gloucester League victory.