D2: Chepstow Athletic 6, Bulwark 1

MATTHEW Pinchard's Chepstow Athletic side go into their Argus Shield semi-final this weekend on a high after dispatching of Bulwark 6-1 on Saturday, writes Keith Fairbank.

An early goal from Chris Hooper put Athletic in front before Chris Meddins equalised for Bulwark after 35 minutes. Chepstow were struggling against the wind for the first period but fine saves from Alex Pinchard and a captain's performance from Gavin Thomas at the back kept the scores level at 1-1. Also putting in a fine showing was Steve Patterson - the Chepstow Town man playing for his opted East Gwent side instead of in the Welsh League for personal reasons.

With the wind behind Athletic in the second half, the floodgates opened. The lead was restored through Simon Howells then substitute David Heal got the first of two. Goals from Carl Bailey and ex-Bulwark man Kenny Roberts completed the rout.

Argus Shield semi-finals to be played on Saturday March 4: Chepstow Athletic v Caldicot Castle; Sudbrook CC v Bulwark.