Toolstation Western League: Wellington 1-2 Saltash United

Wellington AFC’s bid for a third successive premier division victory was thwarted by Saltash United at the Playing Field last night (Tuesday).

Both sides have shown a marked improvement in recent weeks, having struggled in the lower reaches of the table, and it was a close game.

But Saltash were slightly the better side and the three points they took back to Cornwall enabled them to leapfrog the Tangerines into 14th place.

Manager Richard Cherry rang the changes after Saturday’s win 2-1 over Oldland Abbotonians including a return to the club for striker Jordan Casey and midfielder Harry Walford – signed on dual registration with Alphington of the Devon and Exeter League.

His starting 11 also included young defender Harry Scott, who has joined Wellington from Bishops Lydeard.

The Tangerines got off to an excellent start by taking the lead after only eight minutes. A long free kick was headed down by Kieran Bailey to Casey and, when he was brought down, the referee pointed to the spot.

Sam Towler stepped up to coolly slot home his second successive penalty, having scored the late winner against Oldland.

But the Wellington joy was shortlived as Saltash equalised within five minutes.

The ball was played over the top to their pacey No11 Joe Preece, and he drilled a low shot past keeper Jake Viney.

Both sides played some good football before an entertaining first half ended all-square.

It was the visitors who went ahead seven minutes after the break with another quick move seeing Viney save but Preece gratefully tucked home the rebound.

Wellington huffed and puffed to get back on terms although it was the visitors who always looked more dangerous with man-of-the-match Viney pulling off a couple of excellent saves.

The Tangerines must now pick themselves up ahead of a busy holiday weekend – they are away to play-off chasing Bridgwater United on Good Friday and then home to Street on Easter Monday. Both matches kick off at 1pm.

Wellington: Jake Viney, Mark Cornish, Tom Stone (cpt), Kieran Bailey, Harry Scott, Sully McKenna, Harry Walford, Glen Wright, Sam Towler, Josh Lukins. Jordan Casey. Substitutes: Rohan Poulsom, Aaron Hawkings, Joe Wragg, Ryan Hibbert (used); Jack Bown-Porter (not used).