Emirates FA Cup extra preliminary round: Bideford 4, Wellington 1
Wellington were beaten but not disgraced as they bowed out of the Emirates FA Cup at Bideford this afternoon (Saturday, August 2nd).
It was the third season running the two sides had met in the illustrious competition and the Tangerines again gave their Southern League opponents a good run for their £1,125 prizemoney.
After an early setback, they fought back to go into the break all square before being undone by three goals after the break.
Wellington made a couple of changes from the side which had done so well at Shepton Mallet in midweek, including a start for James de Selincourt who stepped off the bench to score twice and earn them a 2-2 draw.
But they got off to the worst possible start by falling behind after only two minutes.
Jevan Wright was sent clear down the right and although his shot was well saved by keeper Jack McAndrews, Ryan Turner knocked home the loose ball.
McAndrews was called on to make a couple more sharp saves to prevent Bideford from doubling their advantage as Wellington weathered the early storm.
And they then stunned their higher league opponents by equalising on the stroke of half-time.
Striker Alfie Slough – whose brother Louie is Bideford’s captain – found Oscar Albano and his shot evaded home keeper Shaun Semmens.
The hosts took the game to Wellington after the break, regaining their lead after 57 minutes courtesy of a looping header by Archie Reay.
To their credit, the Tangerines – who used all three of their young subs – refused to roll over and were still in the game until the latter stages.
But Bideford wrapped up the tie with two more goals, scored by Scott Robinson after 77 minutes and substitute Charlie Wright seven minutes from time.
We return to Jewson Western League action next Saturday when they are away to Buckland Athletic.
Wellington: Jack McAndrews, Josh Lukins, Tom Stone, Mark Cornish, Alex Cherry, Oscar Albano, Glen Wright, Jack Winsor, Nathan Byrne, James de Selincourt, Alife Slough. Substitutes: Harry Chetland, Jack Alcock, Will Curtis (all used). Attendance: 268.
Photos courtesy of Around Wellington.
