Gloucestershire County League

Thornbury Town 1 Berkeley Town 0

THORNBURY Town gained a deserved three points against local rivals Berkeley Town on Saturday.

The opening 20 minutes were fairly even with neither side troubling the opposing keeper and the visitors closing down Thorns quickly.

However, Town gradually got into their rhythm and, after Mark Viner had gone close with a header, they took the lead in the 25th minute.

Luke Franklin’s shot was saved and Nathan Irwin’s follow-up effort was diverted for a corner.

Steve Thompson’s low cross was then fired home at the near post by skipper Pete Fowler.

Thornbury enjoyed the better of the possession after that with Toby Bennett going through on goal but his lob was just too high and moments before the break Luke Franklin shot over the bar after latching on to a poor clearance.

Berkeley started the stronger in the second half but never really looked like scoring.

As Thornbury pressed forward some resolute defending saw Berkeley twice clear efforts from Danny Thompson off the line and then ten minutes from time Toby Bennett’s shot was again blocked on the line by a defender.

However, Thorns held on to their narrow lead and three points that moved them up a place in the table.

This Saturday Thornbury have another vital game when they entertain Rockleaze Rangers (3pm) at the Mundys, while Berkeley are at home to Bristol Academy.