Somerset County Women’s League division one: Wellington Wildcats Ladies 2, Paulton Rovers Ladies Reserves 1
A crowd of just over 90 watched our Wildcats Ladies extended their unbeaten run to seven games at the Playing Field, moving up to second place in the process.
Player-of-the-match was Keeley Coates and she is pictured with Geoff Hamlyn.
The Wildcats started the match a little off their usual pace, with some early pressure but a lack of fluidity in their play.
Ebony Sellick came close to opening the scoring in the first half, connecting with a header which just missed the target.
However, it was Leah Morrell who provided the breakthrough just before half-time, finding the back of the net with a calm, composed right-foot finish to give the Wildcats a 1-0 lead going into the break.
After the interval, the Wildcats came out with renewed purpose. The introduction of Keeley Coates at the break proved pivotal, as she brought fresh energy to the midfield, driving her team forward.
Her persistence and creativity played a key role in the build-up to the second goal. Morrell, in fine form, bagged her brace, finishing with poise to put the Wildcats 2-0 up.
Paulton responded late in the game, pulling one back from a well-executed corner.
Jess Regan had an opportunity to restore Wildcats’ two-goal margin moments later, testing the Paulton keeper with a powerful shot which was well claimed under the crossbar.
However, the Wildcats held firm, with goalkeeper Grayson Kennard – deputising for the unavailable Bianca Hamlyn – making three fine clearances, while the Wildcats defence, as usual, were solid to limit Paulton’s chances.
They were also boosted by the welcome return of Bryony Sellick for the final 15 minutes, having missed the past two months through injury.
Wildcats would like to thank the match sponsors, Davey and Prouse Decorating Services.
Team: Bianca Hamlyn, Imogen Edmondston-Low, Emily Ayers, Tenika Goss, Grace Winter, Robyn Stockman, Charlotte Ayers, Georgia Purdy, Christina Seaborne, Leah Morrell, Ebony Sellick. Substitutes: Grayson Kennard, Jess Regan, Keeley Coates, Milly Howe, Bryony Sellick (all used).
