IT was not a happy return to action in the new year for Royal Wootton Bassett Town in the Hellenic League Premier Division as they fell to a 2-0 defeat away at Ardley United.

The match was the first for Sam Collier's side in 2019, having had an extended break since December 29.

However, there appeared some rustiness in Town's play as they slipped to defeat despite their opponents finishing the game with 10 men after Lewis Gabbidon was sent off.

The contest was goalless at half-time, but second-half strikes from Ardley's Troy Bryan and Jordan Thomas inflicted defeat on Bassett.

The Gerrard Buxton Sports Ground side were the only local team in league action over the weekend, with Supplementary Cup fixtures primarily the order of the day.

Fairford Town earned smooth progress with a 3-0 victory at home to Penn & Tylers Green.

Ben Snook gave Jody Bevan's side the lead at the break before late strikes from Dan Bailey and Jonathan Thomas sealed with win.

Malmesbury Victoria did not need to take to the field to go through to the next round after being awarded a home walkover by North Leigh United, while New College were dumped out 4-0 at home by Langley.

Shrivenham were without a fixture altogether at the weekend.