Defending champions Melksham Town were eliminated from the Wiltshire Cup at the semi-final stage at Bremhill View on Wednesday evening despite a spritied onslaught in the final 15 minutes.

With neither team having scored at half-time, manager Wayne Thorne’s team talk went out of the window immediately when Hellenic Premier League leaders Highworth made a breakthrough less than 45 seconds after the re-start.

Things became more desperate for Melksham when manager’s brother Wayne Thorne sliced into his own net 20 minutes from time.

The centre-back immediately made amends by halving the deficit with a penalty-box header but the Conigre outfit were unable to get the equaliser their late surge deserved, with Dave Macey missing their best chance to force extra-time.

Highworth Town will play Warminster Town in the final.