Welling United boss has tough call in trimming squad

BY MARK DOIG

Welling United were good value for a 4-1 win over a QPR XI on Saturday – as boss Steve King looks to make decisions on his final squad later this week.

The Wings kick off their National League South campaign when they host newly-promoted Dulwich Hamlet this weekend, writes Mark Doig.

King has 25 players – including trialists – at his disposal and had a friendly last night against a Millwall XI and another at Dorking Wanderers tonight.

The experienced manager has plenty to ponder as all of the trialists have looked capable of performing at Welling’s level, if not higher.

Gavin McCallum went close twice in the early stages and it came as no surprise when Welling went ahead in the 22nd minute. Nassim L’Ghoul sent Craig Braham-Barrett clear down the left wing and his low driven cross was put away by Danny Mills.

Rangers levelled when Charlie Owens got on the end of a good passing movement and somehow managed to bundle it home.

Arimide Oteh shot wide from 25 yards then Dzshane Dalling drew a good save out of Dan Wilks.

Yannis Ambroisine headed over for Welling before Oteh came close again for the visitors.

Welling assumed control after the break and McCallum headed over from a Jack Jebb free-kick.

Mills netted but the goal was disallowed then a Jebb shot was turned around the post by Harvey White. Another Mills header was well saved before Welling regained the lead.

Mills was brought down outside the area and Jebb stepped up to fire a free-kick into the top corner.

McCallum scored the goal he deserved from another Jebb free-kick.

Three minutes later, an unnamed trialist made it four with a thumping finish having been set up by L’Ghoul.

Nathan Gale, 15, was brought on for his first taste of senior football in the closing minutes.

PICTURES BY DAVE BUDDEN