INJURY-HIT Wellington produced a battling display to beat St Blazey 1-0 away in the Premier Division of the Jewson Football League.

Manager Richard Cherry’s squad has been decimated by injury and had only 11 fit outfield players.

But the Tangerines scored the crucial opening goal just before half-time and then staged a magnificent rearguard action to take the points.

Wellington started brightly and created the first opening on eight minutes when Miles Quick forced a smart low save from home keeper Kyle Moore.

The hosts responded midway through the half, but keeper Andy Collings was equal to the effort, producing a solid stop with his feet to keep the scores level.

The decisive moment arrived after 44 minutes. Collings’ long clearance caused problems in the St Blazey defence, and when the ball dropped to Oscar Albano, he showed great composure to create space before finishing neatly to put Wellington ahead at the interval.

After the restart, Sam Towler came close to doubling the lead with a curling free-kick which drifted narrowly wide.

St Blazey pushed hard for an equaliser, applying sustained pressure as Wellington were forced deeper into their own half.

But the visitors still broke on occasions and Albano nearly grabbed a second on 75 minutes as Moore dived to save at his feet.

At the other end, Collings continued to prove vital, pulling off an excellent save from a shot on the turn soon after.

Defensive resilience was key, with Jordan Hayman producing a crucial headed clearance from a dangerous set-piece.

There was late drama in stoppage time as St Blazey had strong appeals for a handball penalty waved away, before Collings capped his performance with another fine save.

Wellington: Andy Collings, Harry Chetland, Jordan Hayman, Mark Cornish, Chris Amponsah, Oscar Albano, Glen Wright, Sam Towler, Miles Quick, Charlie Shearer, Jack Alcock. Substitute: Rob Hall (not used).