Blustery conditions greeted near neighbours Bristol to Longlevens for this Cotswold League fixture.

The visitors usually bring a strong side capable of playing very good football and this occasion proved to be no exception. They were soon into their stride and the home outfit did well to retain parity for the first ten minutes before gaining a foothold in the game and creating opportunities for themselves. Balkwill did well to stop a strong effort from Lucas and smother a close range chance at his near post following a corner but was unable to prevent a well struck long range drive from Moore in the 17th minute.

This inspired the visitors and only fine defending from Sallis, Pinkney and Elliott prevented the away side running away with the game. Sutherland, Butcher and Weatherley all had opportunities to level for the home side during a good spell before the break but a breakaway goal for the visitors right on half time gave the scoreline a truer reflection, Lee finishing a sweeping 3 pass move with a fine strike.

Gloucester were more competitive in the second half with Williams, Weatherley, Collins and Knight all stronger in the challenge. Balkwill pushed out another strike from Moore and last gasp blocks from Elliott and Pinkney ensured Bristol’s lead was not extended. Midway through the half though a Bristol free kick from the left hand side of the penalty area was struck sweetly by Gibson into the top corner giving Balkwill no chance.

To their credit, the Yellows continued to compete and were rewarded with a fine goal themselves. Elliott and Sutherland combined to give Weatherley an opening which the captain gratefully accepted and fired low into the corner. Both sides deserve a lot of credit for continuing to play some good football right up to the final whistle in difficult blustery conditions as Bristol ran out 3-1 winners.

Gloucester B: Balkwill; Sallis, Knight, Collins, Elliott, Williams, Weatherley, Butcher, Mason. Subs: Pinkney, Sutherland.