WELLINGTON Wildcats Ladies marked their first home game of the season in the first division of the Somerset County Women’s Football League with a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Cheddar Ladies in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd at the Carly Press Ground.

The afternoon began with the teams walking out alongside young players from the Wildcats’ Under-11s and Under-12s sides, highlighting the club’s strong community spirit and commitment to developing girls’ football in Wellington.

Cheddar started impressively, with Wildcats goalkeeper Bianca Hamlyn producing a fine stop in the second minute to prevent an opener. An unfortunate error in the fifth minute then handed the visitors the lead, but Wildcats’ response was immediate and full of character.

The home side began to dominate possession, playing some superb attacking football. Their 18th-minute equaliser arrived courtesy of Leah Morrell, who struck a stunning left-foot shot from the right-hand side, curling her effort across the keeper and into the far corner after being set free by Robyn Stockman.

From there, the hosts controlled much of the first half, moving the ball confidently and showing the kind of attacking quality that promises plenty for the season ahead. Wildcats continued to press and took a deserved lead on 38 minutes when Grace Winter rose highest to power home a header from a well-delivered corner which was taken by Emily Ayers .

After the break, a series of injuries forced several reshuffles, disrupting the team’s flow but never their determination. Wildcats’ defence was outstanding throughout, dealing with every threat superbly and limiting Cheddar to no shots on target in the second half through strong organisation, bravery, and excellent communication.

In midfield, Charlotte Ayers was excellent once again, while Milly Howe and Tash Hole impressed with their energy and control. Robyn Stockman was lively all afternoon, running her opposite number ragged with her pace and persistence.There were encouraging cameo appearances from Georgia Purdy, Keeley Coates, and Jess Regan, all making gradual returns from injury — though sadly Regan was forced off following a recurrence of an injury late on in the game

Despite the disruptions, Wildcats’ blend of quality, grit, and team spirit shone through as they held firm to claim a deserved three points.

This was a confident and disciplined display that bodes well for the season ahead in Somerset County Women’s League Division 1. Morrell’s intelligent play and tireless work earned her the Player of the Match award, and she was unlucky not to have been rewarded further after being brought down in the box on several occasions without a penalty being given.

Wildcats, who have begun their season with two victories and two defeats in their opening four league games, would like to thank Steve Symons, Painter & Decorator, who sponsored the match and presented the player of the match award to Leah Morrell

The Wilcats team was: Bianca Hamlyn, Grace Winter, Tenika Goss, Emily Ayers, Nyima Touray, Robyn Stockman, Charlotte Ayers, Milly Howe, Grayson Kennard, Tash Hole, Leah Morrell.Subs: Imogen Edmondston-Low, Jess Regan, Georgia Purdy, Keeley Coates (used), Kelly Dinning (not used)

Wellington Wildcats will be back in action this coming Sunday, October 19, when they have another home game against Paulton Rovers Reserves at the Carly Press Ground, Wellington Playing Fields, with the kick-off again being 2p.m.