Jewson Western League premier division: AFC St Austell 2, Wellington 0
A pair of late goals robbed Wellington of the draw they deserved from their first visit to newly promoted AFC St Austell yesterday (Saturday, September 7th).
There was never much to choose between the sides and a goalless draw looked like being the fair result.
But St Austell took the lead with eight minutes left and added another deep in stoppage time to stretch the Tangerines’ losing run in the league to four games.
Manager Richard Cherry made a number of changes after the 1-0 defeat at Bridgwater Town, during which defender Jordan Hayman suffered a broken foot, and his line-up included a debut for Phil Mendonca, signed on dual registration with Taunton Town.
Wellington, who repelled a couple of threatening attacks early on, thought they had been awarded a penalty after 18 minutes for a push on Harry Scott. But, after consulting with his assistant, the referee instead award a free kick just outside the box which came to nothing.
A sharp save by keeper Jake Viney ensured a first half devoid of clearcut chances finished goalless.
Cherry made a double substitution at half-time but it remained a similar story after the break.
The game had 0-0 written all over it until St Austell broke the deadlock after 82 minutes. A cross from the left dropped inside the far post with Liam Eddy claiming the slightest of touches.
That was the signal for Wellington to throw men forward in search of a equaliser and they were caught on the break in the fifth minute of added time, Max Gilbert racing away to shoot low past Viney.
There’s no let-up for the Tangerines who play their 12th successive away game at Shepton Mallet on Tuesday night.
After that it’s another trip into Cornwall – this time to Torpoint Athletic – before they finally play at home to Barnstaple on Wednesday, September 18th.
Wellington: Jake Viney, Ryan Hibbert, Kieran Bailey, Jason Quick, Sam Gleeson, Harry Scott, Glen Wright, Sam Sheldrake, Josh Lukins, Phil Mendonca, Jake Quick. Substitutes: Sam Towler, Lewis Smith, Matt Crawley, Oscar Albano (all used). Attendance: 173.
Photos courtesy of the Around Wellington news and sport website.
