HAVING lost a penalty shootout in a cup-tie earlier in the week, Wellington A slumped to a 5-1 away defeat against Staplegrove Reserves in the Premier Division of the Taunton & District Saturday Football League.

Forced to make changes after the loss to Dunwear United Reserves in the Rowbarton Charity Cup, Wellington took the lead against the Grove with a goal from Brad Holman midway through the first half.

But the Taunton side hit back to lead 2-1 at the interval, and scored three more goals in the second half to put the game beyond Wellington’s reach.

“Unfortunately, we had to make changes and we were not a full strength,” said Wellington’s manager Warren Toth afterwards. “I think if we had been at full strength we would have got something out of the game.”

Meanwhile, champions Gamington began the defence of their title with a 3-2 home win over Porlock. who finished fourth last season.