SHRIVENHAM manager Dave Turner said the right decision was made after his team's Hellenic League Challenge Cup third-round tie with Wantage was abandoned.

Shrivvy were 3-2 up at half-time against the visiting Alfredians but after consultation with representatives from both sides, referee Josh Ainscow decided to call off proceedings.

And the whistler received the full backing of Turner, who believes there was no option but to abandon the cup clash.

“The ref got it spot-on,” said Turner.

“He played it really well as it was definitely playable when we started and we weren't due rain until the end of the game.

“As it happened we had two big downpours in the first half. The first one started after about 15 minutes and carried on for 15 minutes, and it looked like it was going to stop but then we had another downpour.

“The ref handled it well. He called the two captains and the two managers in and then made the decision himself.

“We can take confidence from it because we were winning when it was called off.

“It's a shame because it was turning into a proper old cup tie but it is what it is. It was enjoyable while it lasted.

“The pitch looks a mess now but I'm sure it will be back to its best soon.”

Shrivvy were in the driving seat to progress in front of their home supporters when Steve Robertson scrambled home following a corner.

Home stopper Stewart Thompson then tipped a Tom Melledew effort against the post before Dave Coleman nodded Turner's men 2-0 in front.

Jimmy Deabill slid Wantage back into it before Tom Malton's drive from the edge of the box found its way past Thompson.

Sam Collier restored the home side's lead when sent through one-on-one but referee Ainscow put an end to the game at the break.

Although they might not have completed their weekend fixture, Shrivvy have at least been boosted by two signings.

Centre-half Lee Bowen, who has been dual-registered with Fleet and has mostly played for the Southern League side this season, has become solely a Shrivvy player.

Left-sided man Steve Hall has also come in from Fairford and will add competition as Shrivvy prepare to crank up their fight against the drop from the Hellenic League Premier Division.

Turner added: “They are a couple of players who just bolster us for the run-in and it's good to have them with us.”

Highworth had been due to travel to Flackwell Heath in the Challenge Cup but the tie was called off due to an unplayable waterlogged pitch.