Andy Munns
Salisbury’s match with Swindon Supermarine survived a pitch inspection, but a single goal settled the game in the north of the county.
The goal fell the way of Henry Spalding of Swindon on a heavy pitch that led to a game which was heavy going.
Salisbury started the game well, with Dan Fitchett denied early on by Supermarine’s keeper Josh Gould.
Attractive football wasn’t ever an option with an extremely wet pitch, and the home side’s first chance came from a throw. The long throw was flicked on, and Harry Williams fired over after 11 minutes.
The game was bogged down, as much by the play as it was by the pitch. Salisbury were awarded a free kick just outside the area. Brandon Goodship’s shot on target was pushed away by Gould, saving well away to his right.
That was the only save that either ‘keeper needed to make in the first half as the rain continued to fall.
A half-time pitch inspection was carried out, and the game continued into the second half despite some really wet areas.
The game continued in the same vein as the first, with neither ‘keeper really being tested.
It wasn’t until the hour mark that either side hit the target, and it proved telling.
A slip in the Salisbury backline allowed Williams to lay a chance on a plate for Spalding, who made no mistake and slotted home.
Salisbury attempted to get back into the game and had chances but were unable to register a shot on target in the second half, leaving Gould untroubled.
Salisbury’s next match is away at Highworth Town in the Wilts Premier Shield on Tuesday (10th Jan) before returning to league action on Saturday, 21st, with a home tie against Gosport Borough.
Salisbury FC Women’s game against Swindon Supermarine on Sunday was called off after a pitch inspection.
