WELLINGTON Wildcats’ excellent run in the Somerset Women’s League KO Cup was ended in the semi-finals when they lost 2-1 at home to Pen Mill Ladies. On a gloriously sunny day and in front of a large crowd Wildcats created early scoring chances.

Wildcats’ defence were equal to the attacking strength of Pen Mill, but needed goalkeeper Bianca Hamlyn to be at her best, firstly saving well from a free kick, before making an outstanding save at the feet of the striker. Georgia Purdy and Charlotte Ayers, in the heart of Wildcats midfield, ensured Pen Mill did not get an easy ride as the first half ended goalless.

Playing down the slope in the second half, Wildcats had an impressive start, Ebony Sellick not quite getting enough lift on a through ball as their keeper claimed at full stretch, before Wildcats thought they found the breakthrough; Keeley Coates’ header from an Emily Ayers corner hitting the upright.

At the other end Tenika Goss and captain Grace Winter made several fine clearances with both head and foot as Wildcats battled excellently. The breakthrough for Pen Mill came on 68 minutes, from an excellently placed direct free kick.

Not disheartened, Wildcats continued to press and both Leah Morrell and Robyn Stockman had shots from a tight angle, before on 82 minutes, Pen Mill grabbed their second.

Wildcats came again after a fine run and cross from Morrell, Sellick’s first time effort from close range was agonisingly over the bar. The Pen Mill keeper claimed well as Milly Howe threatened, before Morrell lifted the ball over the keeper to halve the deficit as the clocked ticked into time-added on.

Wildcats’ player of the match, chosen by former Wellington goalkeeper Ian Nott was captain Grace Winter. Nott was representing match ball sponsor NC Groundworks ltd, while the match was sponsored by Mountbatten Nursing Home.