WELTON Rovers were brought firmly back to earth after their impressive Easter when they went down 3-2 away to Hengrove Athletic whose performance belied their lowly position in Division One of the Jewson League, writes Bob Allard.

Welton goalkeeper Will Hunter was called into action after just eight minutes, producing an excellent save to prevent an early breakthrough. Two minutes later he denied another effort, tipping the ball behind for a corner.

From the resulting delivery, George Martin rose highest and powered a header into the net to give Hengrove the lead. Hengrove continued to apply pressure, but Welton remained a threat on the counter. A swift break saw the ball fall to Ben Snell, whose 20‑yard strike thundered against the crossbar.

However, just before the half‑hour mark, the hosts doubled their advantage through Gael Basana, leaving Welton with plenty to do at the interval.

Welton emerged revitalised, taking the game to their opponents. A superb free‑kick from Matt Morris was brilliantly clawed away by former Welton keeper Matt Blammon, and moments later Morris went close again.

But against the run of play, Hengrove struck a decisive third in the 78th minute when Alfie Saunders fired home a fine finish from the edge of the box. Despite the setback, Welton continued to push forward, and in the 83rd minute they were awarded a penalty after George Boon was brought down by Blammon—who received a straight red card for the challenge. Morris converted confidently from the spot to reduce the deficit.

With Hengrove down to ten men, Welton threw everything forward in search of a dramatic comeback. Deep into stoppage time, Snell unleashed a rasping 20‑yard drive to make it 3–2, but the late pressure proved insufficient as the hosts held on to secure three valuable points and lift themselves off the bottom.