More misery for Wings as they lose 1-0 at Taunton Town
BY MARK DOIG
Two big moments were costly for Welling United when they visited Taunton Town in what was always likely to be a tight game.
After gifting the hosts an early goal, Welling’s lack of a cutting edge, including failure from the penalty spot, meant that they returned from Somerset with no points. Although they dominated possession, Welling could not break down a Taunton team that showed little attacking ambition, constantly having all 11 players behind the ball.
In just the 10th minute, they went behind when some poor defending allowed Nick McCootie to shrug off and turn his man far too easily. Having been presented with the clearcut opportunity, McCootie made no mistake with a clinical finish.
Cameron Green and Antony Papadopoulos both fired over for Welling before Ross Stearn scuffed Taunton’s only other shot of the first-half wide.
Five minutes before half-time, Welling missed a great chance to equalise. Nick Grimes wrestled Taofiq Olomowewe to the ground and the Wings were awarded their third penalty in four games. Having converted against Truro City, Papadopoulos was entrusted to take it but Dan Lavercombe guessed correctly and made the save.
Papadopoulos almost made amends immediately when his fierce drive ratted the crossbar, shaking the goal-frame, before the first half ended.
Early in the second period, Taunton had their third and final goal attempt of the match when Lee Lucas fired far into the distance.
Another Papadopoulos effort was too high before Lavercombe made a stunning save to keep out a great Jack Burchell effort after clever build up play created the opening. If that was not enough, he then produced another remarkable save to keep out David Kamara’s shot that was destined for the bottom corner.
One more save by man of the match Lavercombe kept out substitute Lewis White’s low attempt to ensure Taunton registered their first clean sheet of the season.
Danny Bloor. Welling’s manager, will be looking at how he can improve his attacking options ahead of their next match, at home to fellow slow starters Havant & Waterloville.
PICTURES: DAVE BUDDEN