Cirencester 3 Poole Town 0

Southern League Premier Division

 27 February 2016

Poole's season continues to mimic 'The strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde' as a superb performance against Hitchin was followed by a frightful display. Poole failed to control the game from the start, pumping the ball forward rather than passing and eventually giving control to Cirencester. The Centurians started the match in awe of the league leaders but after 15 minutes realised they had little to fear and, gaining in confidence started to press forward. A skillfully worked move after 20 minutes left the dolphins defence flat footed and another 'slicing through butter' moment just before half time saw the score at 2 - 0. At the other end Lee was causing anxious moments for defenders with his robust challenges and Brooks missed a good opportunity with his head, but Burbidge was neutralised and there was little threat.

Away supporters were looking for a better performance in the second half. The hope lasted for 2 minutes before Cirencester scored a third and the game was effectively over. After that point it was a long wait to go home and a fitting finale was Poole's tame penalty easily saved.

Star Player: Not today

Verdict: It would have been difficult to match the midweek performance against Hitchin and the energy levels of that match were just not in evidence. Several players looked very tired and that led to inaccurate passing and tired thinking. There was no attempt to keep control of the ball for periods of time and little creativity. Cirencester were worthy winners by this margin.