DESPITE a vast improvement on last winter, Wellington were beaten 40-20 by Old Redcliffians 2nd XV in their opening match of the season in Counties One Western North at the Athletic Ground.

The damage was done in the first half when Old Reds snapped up three tries, all converted, while Wellington’s only response was two penalties by Alex Davey.

Old Reds stretched their lead to 26-6 in the second half before Ashton Cottrell scored a try for Wellington, with Davey adding the extra points.

The visitors added another converted try before Wellington’s new skipper Ollie Price went over for a try to make it 33-20 with Davey again converting.

However, Old Reds put a stop to Wellington’s fightback with another converted try against the run of play.

Wellington, who can be encouraged by their display, are away to Clifton 2nd XV in another league match on Saturday, October 3.

Wellington 2nds won 21-12 at Yeovil in Counties Four Somerset South.