Somerset Premier Cup Quarter Final: Welton Rovers 0-1 Bath City

Welton’s interest in this season’s Premier Cup came to an end when they were narrowly beaten by National League South Bath City who showed Welton the utmost respect by fielding their First Team against them. Welton more than held their own against the visitors and the Green Army were mightily impressed by Welton’s effort and commitment on the field.

Before the start of the game there was an impeccably observed minute’s silence for Jeff Garland, who recently passed away. Jeff was a well respected and much loved Welton supporter and father of current Welton player, Joe.

The game got underway in front of one of the biggest crowds seen at West Clewes for a very long time, the ground was packed and buzzing as the visitors took the game to Welton early on.

The Romans were playing neat, attractive, attacking football but the Welton defence was up to the task, reducing Bath to a long-range shot from Tom Richards which flew over the bar. Welton responded and a deep cross from the right was met by Chris Pile and his first time effort was just off target. A terrific run down the right by Eddie Jones saw his cross met by Jordan Dyer and his goal-bound shot was cleared off the Welton goal line.

The Romans continued to press, looking for the opening goal, Alex Fletcher headed over from close range and an effort by Omar Holness flew straight into the arms of Welton keeper, Jakob Glover.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 25th minute when an in-swinging corner from the right flew over the mix and fell to Fletcher, who somehow managed to bundle the ball into the Welton net from close range.

As the half was coming to an end an excellent Welton move saw Lewis Russell storm towards the Bath box – he found Jake Slocombe who fired goalwards only to see his effort cleared for a corner.

The second half began with the Romans pressing Welton as they went all out for the important second goal. Glover was on terrific form when he produced a stunning save with his legs to deny Bath.

Welton’s defence were working their socks off as they thwarted attack after attack from the visitors. It was all hands to the pump and Pile was on hand to clear off the Welton goal line to deny Bath a second.

A corner from the right was met by Fletcher and his thumping header rocked the Welton bar. A rear Welton attack nearly caught the visitors out when good work from Will Gould saw his final effort go just wide of the target. Welton then had the woodwork to thank when Tom Richards broke free of the Welton defence and struck a peach of a shot only to see it crash against the upright and go out. Right at the close, Welton keeper Glover then made another outstanding save to deny Cody Cooke.

The massive crowd really enjoyed a great Cup tie, well refereed by Mr Ouchene, and both sets of players left the pitch to tremendous applause.

Bob Allard