Jewson Western League premier division: Shepton Mallet 2, Wellington 2
Wellington came from behind twice to earn a deserved point from an excellent display at Shepton Mallet last night (Tuesday, July 29th).
James de Selincourt stepped off the bench in the second half to score both goals as they bounced back from Saturday’s 2-1 defeat at Helston Athletic on the opening day of the new season.
The Tangerines made three changes with Glen Wright taking over the captain’s armband after Sam Towler decided to join first division Wells City.
There was a new strike partnership of Alfie Slough, signed from Brixham, and Josh Baker, back from Willand Rovers, while Oscar Albano made his first start in midfield after rejoining the club from Middlezoy Rovers.
Playing up the slope, Wellington set the pattern for the first half by taking the game to the hosts, who beat Nailsea & Tickenham 3-0 in their first game.
But it was Shepton who took the lead against the run of play after 19 minutes as a dangerous cross from the right was palmed away by keeper Jack McAndrews and Jacob Sloggett volleyed home.
Wellington pressed for an equaliser and could consider themselves unlucky to go in at the break 1-0 down.
Although Shepton started the second half brightly, the visitors came back into the game and drew level after de Selincourt had replaced Slough.
A low cross by Nathan Byrne in the 68th minute saw Baker step over the ball and the substitute converted from close range.
Wellington’s joy was short-lived as Shepton regained the lead seven minutes later. A corner came out to Paul Braithwaite and he drove home through a crowd of players to make it 2-1.
The Tangerines refused to lie down and got back on terms again with eight minutes remaining. Albano sent over a superb cross from the right and de Selincourt guided a brilliant header into the top corner.
Both sides pressed for a winner but an entertaining contest ended all-square.
An outstanding team performance will boost Wellington’s confidence ahead of the testing Emirates FA Cup tie on Saturday when we are away to Bideford of the Southern League.
Wellington: Jack McAndrews, Josh Lukins, Tom Stone, Mark Cornish, Nathan Byrne, Glen Wright, Jack Winsor, Oscar Albano, Miles Quick, Josh Baker, Alfie Slough. Substitutes: James de Selincourt, Harry Chetland (used); Ryan Upham (not used).
Photos courtesy of the Around Wellington news and sport website.
