WELLINGTON began their build-up to the new rugby season with a pre-season game against Bridgwater & Albion at the Athletic Club - with the visitors just squeezing out a victory 14-12.

Playing under new senior coach Simon Morrell for the first time, Wellington could not have made a better start, scoring a try through former captain George Hodgson in the very first minute with Alex Davey converting.

The match was played over four 20-minute sessions and Wellington led 12-7 going into the last session, their second try being scored by Charlie Higgs to extend their lead.

But Albion managed a late try and conversion to pip Wellington who used 25 players during the friendly.

“It was a good workout for both sides,” said Morrell, who was appointed senior coach during the summer, afterwards.

He has taken over from Bradley Field who stepped down from the role of club coach at the end of last season to concentrate on developing his business.

Morrelll, who joined the coaching staff at Wellington last December, enjoyed playing spells with Exeter, Launceston, Lydney and Bridgwater & Albion, alongside his time at Hartpury College and the University of Exeter. His representative honours include selection for the county,and for the South West Under 19s, England Colleges and Gloucester A.

Wellington have also announced that Joe Snow has joined the club as senior backs player-coach ‘working closely alongside Simon.’

The pair will not only be coaching the senior squad but working extremely closely with the Under 18 squad.

Wellington have another warm-up game away to neighbours Wiveliscombe on Saturday, September 19.

Wiveliscombe will be playing in Regional Two South West this season and are away to Okehampton in their opening game on Saturday, September 26.

Wellington will be playing in Counties One Western North following relegation and begin with a home game against Old Redcliffians 2nd XV - also on Saturday, September 26.