Thatcham through to next round of FA Trophy, as they search for league consistency

The Bank Holiday weekend brought further mixed fortunes for Thatcham Town.

On Saturday they made the trip of just over an hour to Cribbs FC, their opponents in the Isuzu FA Trophy.

The 2022/23 Hellenic League Champions boast a large set of facilities, playing at The Lawns, the former training base of Bristol Rovers.

Thatcham made good use of these, making a quick start as right-wing-back Tinashe Gwavava saw a long range effort tipped over and his left-flank counterpart Kyle Daniel-Spray threatened with a series of low crosses.

Thatcham went into the break at 0-0, but had enjoyed much of the ball and the better of the chances.

Yashwa Romeo’s side ramped up the pressure in the second half, as striker Kyle Tooze had an effort cleared off the line by a desperate Cribbs defender.

Just two minutes later, a breakthrough was found.

Forward Shamar Moore found himself in the right place at the right time, as the ball fell to his feet in the box and he finished with precision, finding the top corner to put his side ahead.

A late penalty was won by Will Edwards in the 95th minute, but Sam Tanner saw his effort saved from the spot.

No matter though, as one goal would prove to be enough to send Thatcham through to the next round.

A day’s rest was all Romeo’s side would get though, as they prepared themselves for the visit of Bashley FC in the Southern League Division One South.

There was one change, as Louis Hutchings came in for Kartel Forde to add some further defensive solidity.

It was a disappointing start however, as Bashley launched a ball over the top of the Thatcham back line and their striker Bungay converted with a tidy finish into the bottom corner, just four minutes into the game.

Thatcham threatened, but were unable to find an equaliser before half-time.

After the break it was much of the same, as Sam Tanner threatened in behind to ask questions of Bashley’s defence.

By the 80th minute, hopes were fading, with Thatcham resorting to aerial balls into the box which were dealt with by the Bashley centre-halfs.

Left-back Callum Winchcombe fired a late cross into the penalty area with just minutes to go, just inches away from being poked in.

The 93rd minute saw a sting in the tail, as a mix-up at the back gifted Bashley a second goal to wrap up a 2-0 win for the visitors.

Thatcham have now lost two of their first three league games and have only scored once.

Romeo will be hoping that their more promising performances in cup competitions are a sign that there is plenty more to come from his young side this season.