WELLINGTON Wildcats went down 2-0 at home to an experienced Pen Mills Ladies’ side in Division One of the Somerset Women’s Football League.

The first 20 minutes showed an improved performance from the Wildcats, retaining possession, using the channels and playing with a flowing style. Milly H and Orlaith C were particularly dangerous on the flanks.

Debutant Nieve Collins worked particularly well in the middle, offering striker Leah Morrell a couple of good opportunities, which produced fine saves from the Pen Mill keeper.

As the half progressed, Pen Mill started to find their feet. Some smart passing saw them gain possession, find extra space in midfield and begin to exert pressure.

A couple of well-defended corners showed an improvement at the back under the captaincy of Emily Ayres, but on the 35-minute mark, a sharp counter-attack saw Pen Mill beat the offside trap and coolly slot home.

Fresh legs were introduced to maintain the Wildcats' intensity, but they were unable to create another chance before the break.

The Wildcats tried to get back into the game after the break, but they found the task particularly challenging.

On the hour mark, an unfortunate clash of heads saw vice-captain Clare Mellish's afternoon ended early through the injury.

The team rotated and tried to find their passing game, but it was Pen Mill again who, with some smart play in the middle of the park, found their number 15, who hit a shot into the top left corner to double their advantage after 75 minutes.

Looking for a reply, the final 15 minutes showed a much-improved display.

Rob Stockman, Lola H, Collins and Milly H worked with enthusiasm and determination, creating some swift passing play which brought renewed energy to the team.

The defeat, while disappointing, showed that Wildcats are competitive and are continuing to learn together against one of the title-contending teams.