Hunt conjures victory (From Stroud News and Journal)

Hunt conjures victory

GLS Hellenic Premier Cup Shortwood United 0 Fairford Town 1

FORMER Forest Green Rovers hero Paul Hunt returned to his beloved Nailsworth to conjure the goal that dumped Shortwood United out of the GLS Hellenic Cup.

Hunt, who almost joined Shortwood this season, delivered a neat cross that allowed Lee Stoddart the opportunity to score the only goal of the game.

Earlier, the home side began well and had the visitors camped in their own half for much of the opening exchanges.

A good run by Chris Davis, back from Loughborough University for the weekend, looked like breaking the deadlock, but his final ball let him down.

Shortwood fans were further frustrated as chances went begging. Towards the end of the first half Shortwood again went close. Rich Evans tried a speculative 20-yard effort, which skimmed the crossbar.

Tim Haddock was equally unfortunate when his left-footed effort failed to find the net.

Meanwhile, neat build-up play from Davis and James Singh allowed Chris Greenough to force a save from Paul Stevens.

Shortwood continued to attack, but it was keeper James Price who was forced into action. His brilliant save denied his former club from going two up.

Nonetheless, Shortwood nearly rescued a point in the final minute, Stevens again coming to Fairford's rescue.

* Shortwood travel to local rivals Slimbridge on Saturday (3pm).