Jewson Western League: Barnstaple Town 2, Wellington 1
A late free-kick consigned Wellington to an agonising defeat at Barnstaple last night (Tuesday).
The Tangerines had come from behind to beat Brixham at the weekend but this time found themselves on the wrong end of a second half fightback.
An entertaining game saw Wellington start brightly with Jake Quick having a chance to put them ahead in the opening minute before seeing a low shot come back off the inside of the post.
Central defender Jordan Hayman then had a flicked header cleared off the home goal-line while, at the other end, Barnstaple’s Tommy Rogers also hit the woodwork when his fierce drive was deflected on to the bar.
It was Wellington who made the breakthrough just before half-time with a stunning goal out of nowhere.
Keeper Jake Viney’s long kick was headed on by big striker Matt Crawley and Jake Quick ran on to send an unstoppable shot over keeper James Weeks.
Barnstaple – with former National League player Gabriel Rogers pulling their strings – took the game to Wellington after the break.
They drew level on the hour mark as a corner came out to the skilful Joshua Parry who made room before firing high into the net.
Rogers had a free-kick well saved by Viney but Wellington were undone by another set play with four minutes remaining.
This time, substitute Ricky Marinaro sent his pinpoint effort from 25 yards up over the Wellington defensive wall and the ball dipped into the top corner, giving Viney no chance.
The Tangerines went in search of an equaliser and nearly drew level in stoppage time as Jason Quick just failed to slide in on a dropping ball in the home area.
Manager Richard Cherry and his squad may have been disappointed with the result but they could take heart from another display which shows they will be no pushovers this season.
Up next is a return to North Devon on Saturday when they play Bideford of the Southern League in the preliminary round of the Emirates FA Cup.
Wellington: Jake Viney, Mark Cornish, Jason Quick, Jordan Hayman, Ryan Hibbert, Harry Scott, Josh Lukins, Glen Wright, Miles Quick, Matt Crawley, Jake Quick. Substitutes: Sam Towler, Tom Burt and Oscar Albano (all used). Attendance: 188.
Photos courtesy of the Around Wellington news and sport website.
