WELTON Rovers went down to a 1-0 home defeat against fifth-placed Wells City in the first division of the Jewson Western League, with the pitch having been declared playable after a morning inspection, writes Bob Allard.

James Tait broke beyond the Welton defence early on and drove a low effort inches wide of the far post. Welton responded with a free kick, delivered by Scott Hatcher and met by Courtney Charles, but the visitors cleared the danger.

Moments later, Will Ford was brought down as he surged towards goal; from the resulting set piece, Charles rose above the defence only to see his header clear the bar.

Wells continued to threaten, with full‑back Luke Newman firing a long‑range effort onto the roof of the net. Welton keeper Will Hunter then produced a solid save to deny Dave O’Hare’s 25‑yard free kick. Welton grew into the half, and good link‑up play from Harry Cade created space for Charles, whose shot on the turn drifted narrowly wide. As half‑time approached, Wells forced three corners in quick succession.

The second half began with an unfortunate incident as Wells defenders Ross Mcerlain and Joel Sisson collided while challenging for the same ball. Both sustained head injuries and were unable to continue after a lengthy stoppage.

Welton restarted brightly, with Caelen Simpson’s shot on the turn safely gathered by Wells goalkeeper Sam Jepson. However, Wells soon regained momentum, and a flowing move presented O’Hare with a clear opportunity, only for him to shoot wide.

City eventually made the breakthrough in the 74th minute. Sustained pressure forced Welton onto the back foot, and the ball fell to the impressive Tait, who calmly lifted his shot beyond Hunter.

Welton pressed hard for an equaliser, with Charles and Cade both going close.

Fixture: Saturday, 21st February, Welton Rovers vs Cadbury Heath (3p.m.).