Biddestone 1, Malmesbury Vics 3

THE Vics agreed to play this Wilts Senior Cup tie at Biddestone's second choice pitch as their own Flying Monk ground was still unplayable after another week of inclement weather.

Both sides played their part in an entertaining cup tie in difficult playing conditions.

Although the Vics had greater possession in the first half Biddestone had the first chance when they awarded a penalty after a clumsy challenge by defender Justin Witchard in the 14th minute.

Graham Jones saved from Healy and honours remained even until Biddestone's Tom Smith scored in the 40th minute from an acute angle.

Malmesbury took control in the second period and Graham Jones, the Vics' keeper, was a spectator for the remaining part of the game apart from a solitary second half effort.

Vics manager Lester Foxall made a double substitution midway through the second half, with Jamie Rowe and Alan Griffin immediately making their mark. With two minutes remaining Richard Hewitt rose to head home the equaliser from a perfect cross from Rowe.

Chappell made some inspired saves from Beck, Wicks and Hewitt to take the game into extra-time.

The Hellenic League side were by now in total control and Hewitt's left foot shot from 30 yards was a formality. Midway through the first period of extra-time, Hewitt capped a fine display with his hat-trick in the final period to secure Vics' victory against their close neighbours.

Said Foxall: "It was a pleasing result considering we played all five of our recent signings against a good Biddestone side."

Foxall is delighted with his recent new signings.

Returning after a short spell with Devizes Town is striker Andy Wicks. Jamie Rowe, also returns to the club after a season with Frome Town and Backwell United's striker Richard Hewitt, together with Mike Wilkinson of Barrow and Alan Griffin, Chippenham Town Youth have all been drafted into the first team squad.

"They are all quality signings and will add both experience and youth to the squad," said Foxall.

Stuart Lamont returns to the squad after a lengthy injury, however the manager is upset at the loss of influential midfielder Richard Lester who has torn a calf muscle and is unavailable for several weeks.

THERE was another wash out for local Complete Music Hellenic League clubs on Saturday.

Swindon Supermarine's third attempt to play RS Basingstoke in the first round of the Complete Music Challenge Cup was postponed and Highworth's second round tie North Leigh also fell victim of the weather.

In Division One Purton missed a chance to register their league victory of the season when their game against Kidlington at the Red House was called off, however, bottom of Division One Purton moved up a place in the table without kicking a ball. Ross Town took over the bottom spot after being deducted three points.

Fairford Town's challenge cup game at Didcot got the go ahead. The home side who are unbeaten in the league after 11 games ran out winners by 3-0.

In the Supplementary Cup ex Purton striker Steve Tucker scored twice in Ardley United's 7-1 win over Worcs College Old Boys.

The bad weather also forced the postponement of the complete Devizes Sunday League programme.