The prolific Mark Hitchman scored a last-gasp goal to clinch victory for Shurdington Rovers in a seven-goal thriller at Cheltenham United.

The centre-forward received the ball 20 yards out, turned and curled a right-footed shot into the left corner to complete a fine fight-back by Stuart Ford’s side.

They had led 2-0 in the first half but then found themselves 3-2 down after the break before their late rally.

The win takes Shurdington level with second-placed Cheltenham United in Division One of the Cheltenham League, five points adrift of unbeaten leaders Mickleton Rangers.

Cheltenham United’s goal difference of 41 is one better than that of Shurdington’s but they have played a game more than both Shurdington and Mickleton.

“It was an excellent result,” said Shurdington chairman Steve Henley. “The aim is to win promotion but there is still a long way to go.”

Hitchman’s goal was his second of the game. He scored his side’s first in the 17th minute and Henley continued: “He scores a lot of goals, you can always count on him in front of goal.

“He gets plenty of assists too, he holds the ball up well.”

Hadley Gilbert after 22 minutes and substitute Lee Brady 14 minutes from time got the other goals for a club who were crowned Division Two champions last season.

“We were always hoping to do well this season,” added Henley. “We’ve got pretty much the same team although we have had added a couple of players.”

Shurdington’s next game in the 12-team Division One is at Welland Reserves on Saturday 21^st February when they will be looking to add to the 66 they have goals scored in the league.

They have eight games still to play and it’s all set up for an exciting finale because their last three games are at home to Mickleton (18^th April), home to Cheltenham United (25^th April) and away to Mickleton (2^nd May).

They host Painswick Reserves, who play in Division 4(S) of the Stroud League, in a quarter-final of the GFA Minor Cup North on Saturday.