Toolstation League premier division: Ashton & Backwell United 4, Wellington 0

Wellington’s unbeaten league run came to a disappointing end at Ashton & Backwell last night (Tuesday, February 7th).

For three-quarters of the game, it looked like the Tangerines’ recent improved results would continue.

But, once Backwell had made the breakthrough, the home side didn’t look back as they extended an impressive run of results on their own turf.

Our starting 11 was without injured striker Jake Quick and defender Tom Stone but included debutant Alfie Clark, a loan signing from Exeter City.

Playing down the slope, we matched Backwell in a high-tempo first half which ended goalless. The home side hit the bar and the post while we also had chances without being able to make the breakthrough.

The visitors found themselves pegged back after the break as the hosts relished playing downhill with some resolute defending ensuring the scoreline remained blank.

But Backwell make the breakthrough after 70 minutes as the ball was played through to sub Miles Hardidge on the right and, with Wellington appealing in vain for offside, he made ground before shooting home.

Seven minutes later, Hardidge was sent clear again and this time he rounded keeper Harley Wilkinson for his second.

Our makeshift striker Ryan Brereton was denied by a good save before two goals in the dying minutes gave the home side a flattering margin of victory.

Hardidge completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot and then Charlie Saunders fired in number four during stoppage time.

The Tangerines now need to pick themselves up for the trip to leaders Saltash United on Saturday but will take heart from the 1-1 draw when the sides met at the Playing Field in November.

Wellington: Harley Wilkinson, Stefan Phillips, Alex Cherry, Jason Quick, Jack Bown-Porter, Jamie Nicholson, Nathan Byrne, Glen Wright, Miles Quick, Alfie Clark, Ryan Brereton. Substitutes: Eli Collins and Kelson Pollard (used); Callum Chivers, Jake Quick and Tom Stone (not used).

BELOW: Exeter City trainee Alfie Clark is welcomed ahead of his debut by joint manager Tim Legg.