MANGOTSFIELD United started their league season, unusually, on a midweek night with a 0-0 draw away to Fairford Town.
It was a game of few chances at either end, and a draw was a satisfactory start to the season for both clubs.
Next came a very welcome 2-0 home win in the FA Cup, against Royal Wootton Bassett Town.
A good strong performance against determined opposition saw the Mangos go ahead on 22 minutes, thanks to a Jaydn Crosbie penalty.
The game was wrapped up in added time by Marcus Kelly, with the reward a trip to current FA Vase holders Ascot United in the next round.
Mangotsfield’s next league game was a disappointing 2-1 away defeat at Highworth Town, even though it was a closely-fought game.
Highworth opened the scoring when Tom Griffiths burst into the penalty area only to see his shot hit the near post, but the ball fell to Josh Davis, who found the roof of the net from 12 yards. Highworth missed a penalty on 53 minutes, with Sol Pryce firing high and wide, but Luke Whelan added a second goal a short while later, with a well-aimed strike.
The Mangos pulled a goal back on 80 minutes, when James White netted with a low drive from 20 yards. Highworth, however, saw out the game to clinch the win.
Mangotsfield bounced back three days later to record their first league win of the season, 4-1 at home to Thornbury Town.
The Mangos dominated most of the first half without creating too many chances, but took the lead on 45 minutes when a short corner was played to Harley Purnell and his cross was headed home by Tom Warren.
On the hour, a defensive mix-up saw Mangos keeper Jakob Glover collide with a team-mate – the loose ball was duly netted by Matt Toghill to make it 1-1.
However, Jaydn Crosbie headed home just three minutes later to regain the lead for the hosts.
Two late goals wrapped up a very enjoyable win for the Mangos, beginning with a great run by Marcus Kelly, which saw him beat several players. Although his first shot was blocked, he found the back of the net with the loose ball.
Kyreese Morrison added to the visitors’ misery in added time to make it 4-1.
Upcoming fixtures
(League unless stated)
August 26: Thornbury Town (FA Vase, home)
August 28: Corsham Town (home)
September 5: Slimbridge (home)
September 9: Lydney Town (away)
September 13: FC Bristol (League Cup, away)
September 19: Wantage Town (home)
September 27: Roman Glass St George (away)
September 30: Lydney Town (home)
Dave Smale