WELLINGTON Wildcats suffered their first defeat of the season when they went down to 100 per cent leaders Pen Mill Ladies in Division One of the Somerset Women’s Football League.

Following an improved warm-up routine Wildcats were quicker from the start than they had been previously and had an early chance to open the scoring. Pen Mil began to pick up loose balls in midfield and feed their attacking players, but they were often caught by Wildcats offside trap.When they did break through they were met by excellent tackling from Tenika Goss and Grace Winter.

The balance of the game changed in the space of two minutes midway through the half. Wildcats, who were arguably the better side at the time, were awarded a penalty after the excellent Leah Morrell was brought down. Unfortunately Wildcats failed to capitalise from the spot and were hit with the ultimate sucker punch as Pen Mill went to the opposite end and scored.

Wildcats ‘keeper Bianca Hamlyn made an outstanding save low to her right, but the Pen Mill striker was quicker to the rebound to slot home.The closest Wildcats came to an equaliser was shortly before half-time; Robyn Stockman rounding her fullback with ease before crossing to the far post, but the ball zipped off the surface agonisingly passed Ebony Sellick sliding in.

Pen Mill, playing down the slope for the second half, had significant possession, but were never able to really test the home keeper.This was largely due to the excellent Wildcats defence.

Wildcats, content with playing on the counter attack, had the better of the chances and could have had a second penalty when Morrell was brought down for the second time. Pen Mill’s second goal came on 73 minutes, a deflected shot from just inside the area which followed an extended period of pressure.

Their third goal, which flattered the visitors, came from the spot after Hamlyn, struggling with a knee injury, was judged to have been second to the ball, bringing down the Pen Mill striker.

Both teams left everything on the pitch as they entertained with an excellent example of women’s football. Ultimately Pen Mill will be the happier team, but Wildcats should be extremely proud of their efforts and were certainly a match for their more experienced counterparts.

Wildcats player of the day, sponsored by Mundy Veneer Ltd, was Robyn Stockman.Thanks also go to the match sponsors Anchor Services

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

Wildcats will look to bounce back when they visit last season’s runners-up Wells City next Sunday