Salisbury CSS League Challenge Cup scalp for Blackfield & Langley

TUESDAY evening proved to be bitter-sweet for Evo-Stik Southern Division One’s high flying Blackfield & Langley FC.

The Watersiders were in high spirits after winning their CSS League Challenge Cup tie against Premier opposition Salisbury — but then news that their title-chasing rivals Moneyfields had beaten Bristol Manor to knock Blackfield off the Division 1 summit filtered through.

Salisbury fielded a side boosted by the inclusion of AFC Bournemouth loan players and stated their intent from the start against Blackfield.

The Whites were the stronger side, but were unable to break down the visitors’ defence, and against the run of play Liam Robinson fired the Watersiders into a 20-minute lead.

Blackfield held on and returning keeper Brad Snelling made several important saves before Robinson doubled his tally, shooting past Salisbury keeper Jake Hallett from 12 yards out in the 56th minute.

Five minutes later it was 3-0 to Blackfield with that man Robinson again on the scoresheet, netting his hat-trick with a shot from the left of the six-yard box.

The Whites rang the changes, but keeper Snelling and his defence produced a determined performance to deny the home side until two minutes into time added on when Luke Hopper scored a consolation penalty for Salisbury.