Bunce brace hands Bashley win over Hamble

Sydenham Premier: Bashley 2-0 Hamble Club

A DOUBLE from forward Harry Bunce gave Bashley a 2-0 victory over a strong Hamble Club side in their fourth game in seven days.

Both sides made cautious starts and action was limited as https://www.bashleyfc.net/’s passing game, set against the long-ball play of Hamble, produced more on-field stoppages than goalmouth thrills.

A sixth-minute goal-saving block by Bash keeper Dan Kempson and a fierce long shot from Brad Morris were the only first-half incidents of note.

Bash found themselves on the back foot straight from the restart but, despite the height and strength advantage of the Hamble forwards, it was keeper Kempson who gained control of his area.

Bashley gradually came out of their shell, but their quick attacking interplay was put on hold for 10 minutes while influential captain Morris was sent to the sinbin.

Like putting a coin in the slot, the return of Morris ignited the black-and-gold boiler and fired the engine of winger Bunce. After sprinting the length of the right touchline, the sure-footed Bunce cut inside and slipped a short pass to Conor Whiteley who, quickly and cleverly, returned the ball to the young winger who made space before sending a swinging shot high into the far corner of the net.

Bash were now fully charged and minutes later Harry McGrath, following a Whiteley assist, was halted by a fine save from Hamble keeper Luke Deacon. Bunce went onto the front foot again as he took off from the centre spot towards goal, with the opposition defence trailing in the dust. Deacon standing tall was no match for Bunce as he claimed his double with a cracking finish.

The final 10 minutes were spent mostly in the Bash half as they defended their two-goal lead, while the in-form Kempson was equally determined to retain his clean sheet.

Bashley sit eighth in the table and host struggling Bournemouth Poppies tomorrow (Tuesday).

Bashley: Kempson, Betts, Smith, Thompson, Strickland, Morris, Ross, Bunce, Morgan, Whiteley, McGrath. Used Sub: Webber.