LEVI Steele marked his second Pershore Town debut with two goals to book his side's place in the Bluefin Sports Challenge Cup semi-finals after a 2-1 win at Fairford Town.

Steele signed for The Plums last week on a deal until the end of the 2022/23 campaign having had a short stint with Danny Janes' side last season. 

And it was his two goals that put Pershore 2-0 up against Step 5 Fairford, before a late consolation made for a nervy finish.

Evesham Journal: Levi Steele bundles home the first goal of the dayLevi Steele bundles home the first goal of the day (Image: Phil Britt)

But Janes' side held on to secure another win against a side from a higher league and they will again face higher-level opposition in the semi-final when they go to the current Hellenic Premier leaders Cribbs. 

After the disappointment of losing the Wiseman Lighting Floodlit Cup Final on Tuesday night, it was the perfect response from Pershore and boss Janes echoed that sentiment. 

"We have come through a difficult fixture and we are delighted to have reached the Semi-Final stage," said Janes.

Evesham Journal: Pershore Town Manager Danny Janes gave his verdict after the 2-1 cup winPershore Town Manager Danny Janes gave his verdict after the 2-1 cup win (Image: Geoff Moore)

"The players were brave and their application to play our way on a very difficult pitch is a testament to them.

"We had some really good moments in the game, on the flip side we had some difficult moments but the players absorbed the pressure.

"The decision making in the second half meant we lost control of the game at times, Fairford changed their shape at half-time and I felt we could have adapted more efficiently.

"It was a very competitive game and the players stood up to the challenge. The quality came through at the right times which got us over the line.

"I was delighted with the impact of Levi Steele today. I felt he added a dimension to our game that we have been missing. He is delighted to be here and he loves the group.