WELLINGTON Wildcats’ six match winning run came to an end with a 4-2 defeat at home to leaders Wells City in Division One of the Somerset Women’s Football League.

The game started slowly with both teams keen not to fall behind but it was Wildcats who made the initial breakthrough after ten minutes. An Emily Ayers corner was cleared by Wells straight back to her and her excellent ball back into the box was headed home by her twin sister Charlotte.

With their tails up Wildcats, lying in third spot before this game, continued to push forward; Robyn Stockman and Ebony Sellick both had half-chances before Wells levelled on nineteen minutes. Their midfielder, who was brought down on the edge of the box, stepped up to unleash an excellent freekick over the Wildcats wall and into the top corner of the goal.

Not to be deterred Wildcats hit back almost immediately through Leah Morrell, who scored her tenth goal of the season, latching on to another excellent ball into the box from Emily Ayers. Late in the half, Wells broke through the Wildcats offside trap twice in quick succession, scoring two very good goals to lead 3-2 at the break.

The first goal in the second half was always going to be pivotal and despite Wildcats having two good chances to level it was Wells who extended their lead just four minutes into the half.

Wildcats keeper Bianca Hamlyn made an outstanding double save, but the Wells striker was quickest to react to the loose ball to smash home and complete her hat-trick. Wildcats pressed hard to get themselves back into the game, Georgia Purdy and Charlotte Ayers, battling exceptionally well in midfield, while at the back Tenika Goss was in fine form, making a couple of excellent tackles to stop any shot on goal.

Wildcats lost Morrell to injury with fifteen minutes left and they were limited to a couple of long range efforts as Wells held out for victory. On a positive note for Wildcats, they were able to introduce under 16s’ captain Milly Howe for her debut, while also welcoming back Naomi Southcott, currently on a break from university.

Wildcats would like to thank match sponsor Davey and Prouse Decorating for their continued support.

Wildcats player of the match, sponsored by Mundy Veneer Ltd, was defender Tenika Goss

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

Wildcats look to return to winning ways with an away trip to Bath City Women Development on Sunday, January 19.