WELLINGTON lost 3-2 at home to third-placed Welton in the Toolstation Western league on Saturday.

They started well and Ellis was unlucky with a firm header which went straight at the keeper.

Then disaster struck when a through-ball resulted in goalkeeper Viney flattening a Welton forward. With Wellington appealing for hand ball and the linesmen having his raised his flag it was minutes before the referee finally decided to award penalty, leaving the home side stunned. Viney was booked before Conradi scored.

A clearly disgruntled Well-ington struggled to get into the game and Wellington went further behind when Viney made a great save only to see the ball rebound to the Welton skipper who made it 2-0.

Wellington came out for the second half with Nott replacing Bryant but were still struggling to create chances.

Further changes saw Bryant and Holmes come on before Nott had a great shot tipped over the crossbar.

Wellington then had Towler sent off for two yellow cards but with defeat looming the Tangerines suddenly got a breakthrough when Bellinger was put through and lobbed the Welton keeper.

Welton were stunned minutes later when Nott had a shot blocked following a corner only for Duckenski to follow up and equalise.

It was now Welton who were clearly rattled and it was a surprise they ended the game with 11 players.

With minutes remaining Nott was caught on the ball outside the Wellington box and Conradi smashed the ball past Viney to give Welton’s promotion hopes a huge boost.

Wellington manager Mike Hawes said: “A poor first half gave us a huge mountain to climb but the lads showed great character to get back in the game before having their hearts broken.”

Wellington: Jake Viney, Luke Bryant, Jack Porter, Carl Duckenski, Tom Ellis, Sam Towler, James Clough, Tim Legg, Connor Bryant, Cleal Liam and Ian Bellinger. Subs: Jack Bryant, Joe Holmes and Ollie Nott.