Toolstation League division one: Wellington 3, Minehead 1.

UNBEATEN Wellington remain top of the first division table after inflicting a first defeat of the season on Minehead at the Playing Field last night (Wednesday).

The margin of victory could have been even greater as Wellington also missed a penalty and hit the post.

But the visitors almost clawed their way back into the game despite having a man sent off early in the second half.

Minehead started brightly and could have taken the lead as home defender Daniel Short cleared off the line before keeper Ryan Lewis pulled off a magnificent double save.

But it was Wellington who broke the deadlock after 28 minutes when Greg Blenkinsop's spectacular volley flew into the top corner.

Five minutes later it was 2-0 as ex-Minehead striker Nick Woon turned home a Simon Ingram corner to open his account for the season.

And when Minehead defender Dave Galby was sent off for swearing at the referee, the result did not seem in doubt.

But Woon missed a 53rd minute penalty for Wellington, hitting the post after a foul on Craig Herrod, and then Minehead pulled a goal back in the 62nd minute through Adam Sparkes.

Although Shaun Anthony also hit the upright shortly afterwards, Wellington were not safe until four minutes from time when the striker was sent racing clear to drill home their third goal.

Wellington: Lewis, Herrod, Short, Holland, D Anthony, Blenkinsop, Ingram, Butler, Herrod, S Anthony. Subs, Clough, Fowler and Fitzgerald (all used).

Wellington are back on their travels this Saturday when they are away to Bradford Town.