It was fantastic to see the Whites squad smiling again as they quickly put their County Cup final disappointment behind them with a feel-good win over Swindon Supermarine T.
Brandon H’s first goal of the season sparked scenes of joy on the field and the sidelines and meant that all 13 Whites have found the net at least once this season – testament to their versatility and summing up the ethos of a team which has performed admirably on its North Wilts League Division 1 debut year.
A tentative start to the midweek fixture at Combe was probably linked to the Colts’ defeat to Highworth in the showpiece match three days earlier but the hosts really began to force their lively opponents back when Brandon M was introduced to the fray.
His pace and power always troubled a Supermarine side who defended high up the field and looked to get numbers forward at every opportunity. Good play from George on the right led to the opening goal, with the keeper unable to hold Brandon M’s effort and Matthew guiding the ball expertly into an unguarded net.
Then came the moment everybody who has watched the Colts this season has been waiting for. Brandon M again muscled his way up the field and the ball broke for strike partner Brandon H to fire into the top corner and open his account for 2014-15.
Supermarine will count themselves unlucky not to score as the half drew to a close as Luke S produced several blocks and headers to halt attacks and Bradley and Callum were kept on their toes by a pacy and inventive strikeforce. Toby, Luke VDB and Tom also got through their fair share of defensive work on the flanks, while providing a useful outlet when the Colts went forward.
Max kept a clean sheet thanks to a confident display and was released from his goalkeeping shackles – swapping roles with Luke S - early in the second half after Liam won and converted a penalty to make it 3-0.
After the Supermarine keeper prevailed in a couple of one-on-ones, Brandon M got the goal his performance deserved with a confident strike. Supermarine hit back immediately thanks to some lax defending but Matthew rifled in a free-kick via the underside of the bar to complete his double and all but end any hopes of a comeback.
George’s powerful low shot from the edge of the area increased the lead before Supermarine conjured up a superb curling effort into the top corner at the other end.
Bradley put a long-range free-kick inches wide and Luke VDB, Tom and Brandon M all went close before Liam had the final word, using his extreme pace to burst clear before producing a finish to match.
MOM: Matthew.