Perennial North Wilts League high-fliers Shrivenham & Watchfield finally got the better of the Whites at the third time of asking as the home side were left to reflect on another one that got away.
Having taken the lead before ending up empty-handed against Forest Green, FC Calne and Supermarine J already this term, Colts again crumbled in the face of second-half pressure after failing to get the rub of the green with a couple of refereeing decisions.
They had produced two excellent performances against the same opponents on the Wiltshire/Oxfordshire border before the turn of the year and made another fast start.
Brandon M’s pace provided most of their best attacking moments throughout the morning and after he burst clear and poked the ball under the keeper and towards the net, Luke V was alert enough to apply the finishing touch from close range.
George looked a threat whenever he was in possession out wide and Toby’s unerringly accurate corners caused plenty of alarm for the Shrivenham defence.
Brandon H went agonisingly close to making it 2-0 after a fine run by Callum and an unselfish ball from Matthew, who along with Liam was somehow denied in a frantic goalmouth scramble.
With Bradley cool in possession and firm in the challenge, Tom showing good composure on the ball and Max commanding his box expertly, the visitors were kept at arm’s length before the break.
However, their passing, movement and concentration was always superior to that of the Colts and it paid dividends in the second half.
The turning point came when Liam, whose close control on the awkward surface was often impressive, was felled inside the area and had a strong claim for a penalty waved away.
Colts just about survived an instant free-kick award at the other end but Shrivenham soon levelled when the home side waited for an offside decision that never came.
Callum had a low shot touched round the post and Luke S’s free-kick was deflected over the bar as the hosts tried to fashion a response and an absorbing contest swung from end to end for a spell, with supporters from both sides roaring their approval.
Luke V headed a goalbound shot behind for a corner and Max pulled off a magnificent save to beat away a vicious Shrivenham drive but the keeper was left helpless when his static team-mates presented the visitors with simple chance to make it 2-1.
The goal came with less than ten minutes to go and completely knocked the wind out of the Colts’ sails, with another following soon afterwards to confirm their fate. Although they came off the field having played a full part in a close an entertaining game, Colts will continue find points hard to come by in an intense and tough division if they cannot use the ball better or keep their focus for the full hour.
MOM: Max.