WELLINGTON Wildcats returned to winning ways at the first attempt against a very strong Bath City Ladies Development side, chalking up a 2-1 away victory in Division One of the Somerset Women’s Football League.

Despite a slow warm-up routine, Wildcats were quickly into their stride from the first whistle and only an excellent stop low down by the home keeper from Ebony Sellick’s fine strike stopped them going ahead in the opening minutes. An equally good save was needed moments later when Sellick met Emily Ayers corner with an excellent turn and shot.

Wildcats continued to press forward, notably through wide players Grayson Kennard and Robyn Stockman, with the latter being brought down with a heavy challenge inside the box, but no penalty was forthcoming. On the half hour mark Wildcats grabbed the goal their dominance deserved. A long ball from Bianca Hamlyn was well controlled by Stockman and her first time ball into the box was met by Sellick to thunder home.

Shortly after the restart City beat Wildcats offside trap to be clear through on goal, but Hamlyn made an excellent save to keep Wildcats’ lead intact.

Wildcats’ superb back four were making it near impossible for Bath to break them down, their line near perfect throughout, while Tenika Goss made an outstanding covering tackle when City threatened the wide channel.

Leading one nil at halftime, Wildcats were attacking up the slope in the second half and following a slight change of tactic, they utilised central players Georgia Purdy and Charlotte Ayers, who excelled throughout the game, to great effect. They were able to feed both Sellick and Leah Morrell at ease.

Morrell saw more of the ball in the second half, having two chances well saved by the keeper, while Stockman’s effort from just inside the area was narrowly over the bar.

Wildcats second goal came on seventy three minutes; Charlotte Ayers’ long range drive was spilt by the keeper, but Sellick was on hand to tap home for her 35th league goal in Wildcats colours.

Wildcats relaxed a little after their second goal and Bath narrowed the deficit on eighty minutes which led to a nervy final ten minutes for Wildcats as Bath sensed an equaliser, but Wildcats were able to hold out for an excellent away victory. Wildcats player of the day, sponsored by Mundy Veneer Ltd, was Ebony Sellick.

Wildcats: Bianca Hamlyn, Emily Ayers, Naomi Southcott, Tenika Goss, Grace Winter, Robyn Stockman, Georgia Purdy, Charlotte Ayers, Grayson Kennard, Leah Morrell, Ebony Sellick. Subs (all used): Christina Seaborne, Keeley Coates, Imogen Edmondston-Low, Chloe Payne.

On Sunday, January 26, Wildcats are home to Paulton Rovers Ladies Reserves. Kick off 2pm at The Playing Field.