Jewson Western League Premier Division: Shepton Mallet 4, Wellington 0

Three first-half goals sent our new-look side on their way to defeat at Shepton Mallet last night (Tuesday).

After their encouraging display at Bovey Tracey on Saturday, the Tangerines started brightly and created the first opening.

Skipper Josh Baker almost put them ahead after only three minutes when he ran on to a long ball, but his well-struck shot was pushed wide by home keeper Harry Charlesworth.

Instead, it was Shepton who broke the deadlock after 15 minutes. A low cross from the left found Matt Lee unmarked and he made no mistake from close range.

The home side doubled their advantage in the 34th minute when a shot crashed against the underside of the crossbar and Brad Pfupa reacted quickest to scramble the loose ball over the line.

Wellington’s task became even harder only two minutes later as Ethan Cannings fired home a low shot which gave new keeper Lewis Layton no chance, sending Shepton into the interval with a commanding 3-0 lead.

Playing down the slope in the second half, the Tangerines produced an improved display and came close to reducing the deficit in quick succession.

Substitute Ben Evett’s free-kick drifted just wide before Ollie Ackland saw his effort blocked on the line by a defender.

The visitors introduced all five substitutes as they searched for a way back into the contest, but Shepton continued to pose a threat and wrapped up the points ten minutes from the end, Luke Wilkinson rising to power home a thumping header from a corner.

There was still time for both goalkeepers to make important saves late on. Charlesworth did well to keep out a long-range effort from Vincent Wright-Harper Innis while, at the other end, Layton produced a fine block from Pfupa to deny the hosts a fifth goal.

Despite another battling display, Wellington returned home empty-handed and will look to bounce back on Saturday when they travel to Ivybridge.

Wellington: Lewis Layton, Connor Noble, Vincent Wright-Harper Innis, Connor Pengelly, Carl Jones, Nat Hawkins, Luca Staniforth, Sam Poole, Josh Baker, Ollie Ackland, Harvey Conroy. Substitutes: Daniel Conway, Ned Ogilvie, Ben Evett, Evan Howse, Lewis Oaten (all used)

Photos courtesy of the Around Wellington news and sport website.