By Connor Green
USW 2nds fell to a 4-0 defeat away to Gloucestershire 1sts in the first round of the Conference Cup – an unusually early exit for Rob Bailey’s side.
USW have been finalists and quarter-finalists in the last two seasons, but fell at the first hurdle this time on an afternoon when they were a clear second best.
Rene Nistor broke the deadlock after a tight first half hour with a stunning goal that flew into the top right corner to give the hosts the lead.
Nistor grabbed his second of the game for Gloucestershire just before half-time to put the hosts in complete control of the game.
Gloucestershire captain Rory Hunt put the game out of reach for USW early in the second period, despite the visitors starting with more purpose after the interval.
Nistor completed his hat-trick with 20 minutes left to set the seal on a chastening encounter for USW.
It wasn’t all bad for Bailey’s men. They never gave up and did create chances towards the end to make the scoreline healthier.
USW goalkeeper Alfie Tucker, while beaten four times, also gave a good account of himself, pulling off several good saves.