Rear, from left. Geoff Hamlyn (manager), Leah Morrell, Robyn Stockman, Tenika Goss, Grace Winter (captain), Imogen Edmondston-Low, Tash Hole, Charlotte Ayers, Les Coates (assistant manager), Steve Crudge (assistant manager).
Front, Kelly Dinning, Nyima Touray, Milly Howe, Jess Regan, Bianca Hamlyn, Georgia Purdy, Grayson Kennard, Keeley Coates, Emily Ayers.

Somerset County Women’s League: Wellington Wildcats Ladies 2, Cheddar Ladies 1

Our Wildcats Ladies marked their first home league game of the season with a hard-fought victory over Cheddar Ladies in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd at the Carly Press Ground.

Leah Morrell, with match sponsor Steve Symons.

The afternoon began with the teams walking out alongside young players from the Wildcats’ U11s and U12s sides, highlighting the club’s strong community spirit and commitment to developing girls’ football in Wellington.

Cheddar started impressively, with Wildcats goalkeeper Bianca Hamlyn producing a fine stop in the second minute to prevent an opener. An unfortunate error in the fifth minute then handed the visitors the lead, but Wildcats’ response was immediate and full of character.

The home side began to dominate possession, playing some superb attacking football. Their 18th-minute equaliser arrived courtesy of Leah Morrell, who struck a stunning left-foot shot from the right-hand side, curling her effort across the keeper and into the far corner after being set free by Robyn Stockman.

Morrell’s intelligent play and tireless work earned her the Player of the Match award, and she was unlucky not to have been rewarded further after being brought down in the box on several occasions without a penalty being given.

Wildcats continued to press and took a deserved lead on 38 minutes when Grace Winter rose highest to power home a header from a well-delivered Emily Ayers corner.

From there, the hosts controlled much of the first half, moving the ball confidently and showing the kind of attacking quality that promises plenty for the season ahead.

After the break, a series of injuries forced several reshuffles, disrupting the team’s flow but never their determination.

Wildcats’ defence was outstanding throughout, dealing with every threat superbly and limiting Cheddar to no shots on target in the second half through strong organisation, bravery, and excellent communication.

In midfield, Charlotte Ayers was excellent once again, while Milly Howe and Tash Hole impressed with their energy and control. Robyn Stockman was lively all afternoon, running her opposite number ragged with her pace and persistence.

There were encouraging cameo appearances from Georgia Purdy, Keeley Coates, and Jess Regan, all making gradual returns from injury — although, sadly, Regan was forced off following a recurrence late in the game.

Despite the disruptions, Wildcats’ blend of quality, grit, and team spirit shone through as they held firm to claim a deserved three points. A confident, disciplined display which bodes well for the season ahead.

Wildcats would like to thank Steve Symons, Painter & Decorator, who sponsored the match and presented the Player of the Match award to Leah Morrell

Team: Bianca Hamlyn, Grace Winter, Tenika Goss, Emily Ayers, Nyima Touray, Robyn Stockman, Charlotte Ayers, Milly Howe, Grayson Kennard, Tash Hole, Leah Morrell. Substitutes: Imogen Edmondston-Low, Jess Regan, Georgia Purdy, Keeley Coates (used); Kelly Dinning (not used).

Next match: Wildcats are at home to Paulton Rovers Reserves on Sunday, ko 2pm.

Player of the Match v Pen Mill, Tenika Goss, with Geoff Hamlyn.