ROYAL Wootton Bassett Town have just one match of their Hellenic League Premier Division programme remaining before their campaign is put out of its misery, after their run without a victory stretched to a 10th match on Saturday.

Bassett looked set to earn a point against title-chasing Thatcham Town at the Gerrard Buxton Sports Ground, only for the visitors’ joint-manager Gareth Thomas to pop up with the winner in the 93rd minute.

The point kept Thatcham on the trail of Premier Division leaders Kidlington on the run-in while for Bassett, only a trip to Bracknell Town on Thursday week remains in what has been a hugely disappointing end to the campaign.

Bassett had the better of the early exchanges and Steve Robertson’s backheel set up Harvey Scholes for a shot but his attempt was skewed wide.

But Thatcham responded as Daniel Lachacz headed Josh Helmore’s cross onto the bar as half time loomed, Mark James headed goalwards from Tom Melledew’s corner but Bassett keeper Curtis Meare tipped the effort onto the woodwork.

Bassett nearly broke the deadlock as Nathan Hawkins’ header from a free kick went wide but it was scoreless at half time.

Thatcham found the net in the second half, only for James’ effort to be chalked off for a push before Cooper-Clarke also went close.

Sam Packer saw his effort saved by Thatcham keeper Chris Rackley while, at the other end, Meare continued to thwart the best of the visitors’ efforts.

However, in injury time, centre-back Thomas escaped the attentions of the defence and headed in at the back post while unmarked.

Highworth Town’s season continued to wind its way towards a conclusion as they were held 1-1 by struggling Milton United at The Elms.

John Fisher’s side took the lead in the 34th minute when Callum Parsons found the net, but Tom Austin restored parity for the away side after the break with a superb free kick.