Second-half fightback not enough for Wellington AFC

A spirited second-half display was not enough for Wellington AFC as they were narrowly defeated at Ivybridge Town <i>(Image: Around Wellington)</i>
A spirited second-half display was not enough for Wellington AFC as they were narrowly defeated at Ivybridge Town (Image: Around Wellington)
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A second-half comeback was not enough to save Wellington from defeat at Ivybridge Town.

The Tangerines put in their best performance of the season to date but still returned home empty-handed.

Their line-up for the match included Lewis Layton, Connor Noble, Vince Innis, Connor Pengelly, Nat Hawkins, Reegan Scotcher, Harvey Conroy, Luca Staniforth, Josh Baker, Ollie Ackland, and Ben Evett.

Substitutes Ned Ogilvie, Harry Chetland, and Daniel Conway were also used.

Wellington made a strong start, with Noble's early clearance preventing an opening goal from the hosts.

Despite this, Ivybridge took the lead in the 21st minute with a corner flicked on at the near post.

They doubled their advantage in the 32nd minute with a well-executed move that ended with CJ Pritchard beating goalkeeper Layton.

Wellington's defence kept them in the match, with Noble making another crucial clearance before half-time.

After the break, Wellington came out with renewed energy, putting pressure on the Ivybridge defence.

Evett came close in the 67th minute, firing into the side-netting, while Noble's header narrowly missed the mark.

Their efforts paid off 11 minutes from time when Pengelly capitalised on an Evett corner to score.

A superb save from Layton prevented Ivybridge from regaining their two-goal advantage.

However, in injury time, Owen Howard's breakaway goal sealed the victory for Ivybridge.

The Tangerines hope to bounce back in their next match against Buckland Athletic on Wednesday, August 5.

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