Jewson Western League premier division: Wellington 1, Oldland Abbotonians 0

A penalty from skipper Sam Towler was enough to stretch Wellington’s winning run to five games at the Playing Field yesterday (Saturday, October 26th).

Defender Mark Cornish was our man-of-the-match and he received the award from Michael Owen – bar manager and Reserves assistant boss – on behalf of sponsors, JH Total Construction Ltd.

But they had to dig deep for their latest victory in a game which could have gone either way.

The Tangerines’ run is all the more remarkable at a time when they have been hit by a string of injuries and manager Richard Cherry again had to make changes his line-up.

His squad included local brothers Jack and Sam Bryant, who have rejoined the club from Cullompton Rangers and have been playing for the Reserves.

There was little to choose between the sides in a first half of few chances with Oldland hitting the post and Wellington’s man-of-the-match Mark Cornish heading straight at the keeper.

But the deadlock was broken after 66 minutes when home striker Jake Quick was felled by a lunging tackle in the box.

The referee pointed to the spot and Towler stepped up to make no mistake.

From then on, Oldland took the game to Wellington but, once again, Cherry’s side defended magnificently to keep them at bay.

The visitors nearly found an equaliser during the lengthy stoppage time but keeper Jake Viney pulled off a spectacular flying save to tip the ball over the bar.

The only down side for Wellington was their injury jinx striking again.

Midfielder Glen Wright stepped off the bench following a long layoff but, after only a short spell on the pitch, a heavy tackle damaged the same ankle and he is now set to be out of action for another month.

Wellington have no midweek game this week – next up, they travel to Saltash United on Saturday.

Wellington: Jake Viney, Mark Cornish, Jason Quick, Tom Stone, Sam Gleeson, Nathan Byrne, Sam Towler, Sam Pashen, Jack Bryant, Josh Lukins, Jake Quick. Substitutes: Ryan Hibbert, Glen Wright, Sam Bryant (used); Rob Hall (not used).

BELOW: Sam Towler slots home the winning penalty followed by a picture gallery from the game, courtesy of Around Wellington.