By Will Taylor
THE University of South Wales 6ths claimed their first win in three matches against an energetic Bristol outfit.
Despite the score-line, the Sport Park at Trefforest played host to an unremarkable game with each side having only a handful of chances over the 90 minutes.
It was a very cagey first 15 minutes, with each team struggling to keep hold of the ball until a lobbed pass found the feet of USW’s Dooake Sonrandein who chipped it over a helpless Max Houchin in the Bristol goal for a 1-0 lead.
The USW bench’s jubilation lasted a matter of seconds, however, as Bristol defender Zac Francis headed in from a corner.
After a very stop-start first half, the home side were back in front thanks to attacker Sylvester Anaisie who rifled a shot across Houchin to leave him once again with no chance.
A minute later the lead was extended as Anaisie took his tally to two as he thundered in a shot from the edge of the box with half an hour gone.
The lead should’ve been reduced with a minute gone of the second half, as only USW goalkeeper Mack Bristow’s outstretched left leg maintained the two-goal advantage.
After Bristow’s save the game became very scrappy with each team struggling to keep the ball. With 10 minutes to go, there was a lengthy stoppage with a Bristol midfielder down receiving medical treatment.
This was the turning point of the second half, with Bristol having their best period of the game. They dominated possession and had numerous opportunities to put the ball in the box and test a shaky USW defence.
Bristol managed to capitalise on this period of dominance with seven minutes to go after a flowing one touch passing move was finished by second half substitute Harry Chappel.
The USW defence managed to hang on however, securing a vital three points.