WELLINGTON suffered a disappointing defeat by Oldland Abbotonians at the Carly Press Ground on Saturday in the Western League Premier Division, writes Ken Bird.

The Tangerines had won two games on the trot before pushing promotion-chasing Paulton Rovers all the way in a 2-1 midweek defeat.

But they endured a frustrating afternoon against an Oldland side who had picked up only five points all season.

Despite dominating long spells and creating the better chances, Wellington were unable to find a breakthrough and were ultimately punished by clinical counter-attacks from their Bristol-based visitors.

The hosts began brightly and looked the more likely side in the early stages. Charlie Shearer and Oscar Albano both tested the Oldland defence with ambitious long-range efforts as they looked to build early momentum.

But there was a setback midway through the half when Josh Lukins was forced off with an injury, prompting the early introduction of Phil Mendonca on his return to the club from Buckland Athletic.

Wellington continued to push forward and came agonisingly close to the opening goal in the 27th minute when Sam Towler’s free-kick crashed against the underside of the crossbar.

Towler threatened again later in the half from another set-piece, although this time his effort struck the wall.

Oldland were reduced to ten men shortly before the interval with a player sent to the sin-bin and the sides went in level at the break.

However, despite their reduced numbers, the visitors struck against the run of play early in the second half as Sam Watkins was sent clear before calmly slotting the ball underneath Wellington keeper Andy Collings.

Watkins nearly doubled the advantage minutes later, only to be denied by a fine save from Collings after another swift counter-attack.

Wellington reverted to three at the back and continued to press in search of an equaliser. Jacob Shore headed over from a Towler cross, while Josh Baker saw a looping header beat the goalkeeper, only for his effort to be ruled out for offside.

Jordan Hayman came close with a deflected effort which drifted just wide as the hosts increased the pressure late on, but Oldland remained dangerous on the break.

Collings produced an excellent block to deny Watkins again before making two more sharp saves to keep Wellington in the contest.

But deep into stoppage time, the visitors sealed the result. Another breakaway saw substitute Jayln Johnson finish confidently to leave Wellington empty-handed.

The Tangerines will look to bounce back this Saturday when they host local rivals Bridgwater United (3pm) before another home clash on Wednesday night when Bristol-based Brislington head down the M5 (7.45pm).

Other fixtures in the division on Saturday are as follows: Buckland Athletic v Brislington; Helston Athletic v Paulton Rovers; Ivybridge Town v Oldland Abbotonians, Newquay v Barnstaple Town; Saltash United v Clevedon Town; St Blazey v Sidmouth Town; Street v Torpoint Athletic.

WELLINGTON v Oldland Abbotonians: Andy Collings; Jordan Hayman, Mark Cornish, Jacob Shore, Josh Lukins, Charlie Shearer, Glen Wright, Sam Towler, Oscar Albano, Miles Quick, Josh Baker. Subs: Phil Mendonca, Ryan Brereton, Jack Alcock, Alfie Slough (used); Nathan Byrne (not used).