Quedgeley Wanderers 3rds...................3

Alkerton Rangers......................................1

Alkerton’s fine run of form came to an end at Waterwells Park.

Facing the wind the green-and-whites conceded an early goal as the ball was lifted over the helpless Chris Stark.

Dave Potter and Lewis Vanstone then went close with efforts from the edge of the box. It was a contrast of styles as Wanderers placed emphasis on the long ball whereas Rangers played neat passing football with Kirk Wilkinson and Ash Gallagher at the heart of incisive moves.

Quedgeley made it 2-0 on 37 minutes when a cross from the left was headed in from close range, Stark’s right hand just failing to keep the ball out.

Alkerton’s never-say-die attitude has served them well of late and with the half drawing to a close they were back in the game.

Kirk Wilkinson’s left-wing corner was met by the onrushing Harry Cunningham, and when his header was blocked Gallagher snaffled up the loose ball lifting it high into the net from a metre.

Immediately after the interval Rangers almost equalised when Lewis Vanstone could not got enough of his head on Dave Potter’s delivery from the right.

The game was effectively decided on 62 minutes when the home side converted a penalty following a handball decision.

Isaac Fearnley had the opportunity to reduce the arrears on 83 minutes but drilled his effort wide.