A CROWD of more than 500 packed into windswept West Clewes for the Good Friday Coalfield Classico, where a moment of brilliance on 70 minutes secured a vital 1-0 derby victory for Welton Rovers over Radstock Town in the first division of the Jewson Western League, writes Bob Allard.

Welton adapted quickest to the difficult conditions and created early chances. Ben Snell fired a first‑time effort across goal and Matt Morris cut in from the left but dragged his shot off target.

Radstock keeper Tom Crouch then did well to hold Robert Hobbs’ curling strike. The strong wind and a flurry of minor fouls disrupted the flow of the game, yet Radstock eventually found their rhythm. Louie Gurner produced an excellent solo run through the Welton defence but shot narrowly wide.

At the other end, Morris twice went close — a free kick inches over the bar and a long‑range effort drifting wide — while Radstock’s high line repeatedly caught Welton offside. Just before the interval, a superb last‑ditch challenge from Courtney Charles denied the visitors a clear opening.

Welton began the second half on the front foot. Morris threatened again, and sustained pressure finally earned the hosts their first corner.

The match continued to ebb and flow, with Radstock’s Bill Tucker producing a crucial tackle to foil Will Ford.

The decisive moment arrived on 70 minutes. Calaen Simpson found space on the left, cut inside and drilled a low shot into the far corner, sparking an eruption around West Clewes.

Welton pushed for a second, with Lewis Russell denied only by a goal‑line clearance from Jimmy Redfern. Crouch then raced out to thwart Morris. As Radstock pressed late on, Welton keeper Will Hunter produced two excellent saves.

At the final whistle, jubilant scenes greeted a hard‑earned three points and a derby double over their near neighbours.