A GOAL in each half consigned Wellington to a 2-0 away defeat against highflyers Saltash United in the Premier Division of the Jewson Western Football League in Cornwall.

Manager Josh Stunell was without a number of players from the previous week’s game, including skipper Glen Wright (unavailable).

His squad included four players from the club’s U18s with a first start for Cris Amponsah and places on the bench for Harry Chetland, Daniel Conway and Lewis Oaten.

Saltash had suffered a surprise FA Vase defeat by Bishops Lydeard in midweek, going out on penalties.

But they put that behind them by taking the lead after only four minutes. The ball was squared to Ben Goulty on the edge of the D and his drive gave keeper Jack McAndrews no chance.

That was the only meaningful effort of a disappointing first half and Saltash, who had enjoyed more possession, went into the break with a single-goal advantage.

McAndrews pulled off a fine save to deny Deacon Thomson shortly after the restart.

But Thomson was not to be denied and he doubled the hosts’ advantage with 15 minutes remaining, clinically dispatching a low cross from the left.

Stunell used all four subs, including new signing Ashley Billingham, although his side failed to trouble keeper Dan Layer.

At the other end, Wellington were indebted to McAndrews for two more sharp stops to prevent further goals.

The Tangerines will now look to pick themselves up for Saturday’s home tie v Penzance in the Isuzu FA Vase (September 20).

Wellington: Jack McAndrews, Jack Alcock, Jake Haggerty, Tom Stone, Nathan Byrne, Cris Amponsah, Jacob Short, Josh Lukins, Miles Quick, Alfie Slough, Oscar Albano. Substitutes: Harry Chetland, Daniel Conway, Ashley Billingham, Lewis Oaten (all used). Attendance: 160.

Meanwhile, Wellington A went down to a 6-4 home defeat against Wembdon in the Premier Division of the Taunton Saturday League.