MANGOTSFIELD United bounced back from three defeats in eight days to put together a run of three wins.
Coming after a hectic spell of cup runs and league matches, the 2-0 defeat at lowly Droitwich Spa proved extremely disappointing and was described by some fans as just “one game too many”.
The Mangos never really got going against the Worcestershire side.
Three days later, the Mangos faced another away game, this time at Devizes Town, and once again it ended with a disappointing 2-0 defeat.
Both goals were scored by Owen Demkiv, the brother of former Mangotsfield striker Dan Demkiv, who also lined up in the Devizes forward line.
The third defeat came away at bogey side Roman Glass St George. The Mangos trailed 2-0 at the break, and the hosts added a third goal on 86 minutes.
A week’s break was just what the doctor ordered, and seven days later Mangotsfield turned in an excellent performance to defeat high-flying Thornbury Town in front of a crowd of 351 at Cossham Street.
It was a much-improved display. After a battling first half, the Mangos took the lead on 47 minutes through Mohammed Djalo. George Neill made it 2-0 on 73 minutes and, despite valiant attempts by Thornbury, Mangotsfield stood firm to stop the slide into the lower echelons of the league table.
A week later came an FA Vase fixture against Gosport-based Fleetlands FC, previously unknown opponents.
It gave everyone another break from league football and what a game it was, finishing 3-3, with four goals in a thrilling second half, before the Mangos won the penalty shoot-out 4-3.
Mangotsfield’s scorers were Mohammed Djalo (32 and 72) and Owen Pritchard (49).
They now travel to Andover New Street in the next round.
The return to Hellenic Premier League action brought a very welcome 2-1 win at Hallen.
The Mangos began strongly and were 2-0 ahead by 22 minutes, courtesy of George Lloyd (15) and Frankie McKay (22).
Struggling Hallen got one back in the second half but the Mangos dug in to clinch the 3 points, watched by a disappointing home crowd of just 50 spectators.
Sadly the club announced on October 15 that veteran official and lifelong supporter Alan Williams had passed away at the age of 93, two days earlier.
Alan was a stalwart of the club over so many years, and everyone who follows the Mangos knew him.
My deepest sympathy and condolences to Alan’s family and friends.
Dave Smale
Upcoming
fixtures:
November 7:
Droitwich Spa (home)
November 10:
Thornbury Town (away)
November 14:
Banbury United Development – Hellenic Challenge Cup (A)
November 17:
Highworth Town (H)
November 21:
Hereford Pegasus (H)
November 28:
Royal Wootton Bassett Town (A)