WELTON Rovers’ hopes of making a strong start to the new season in the first division of the Jewson Western League were undone as a youthful and energetic Shirehampton side claimed a deserved 3-0 victory on a hard and uneven West Clewes pitch.

Welton created the first clear opening when Will Ford produced a neat through‑ball to Harley Prior, whose low shot was saved by visiting goalkeeper Kieran Webster.

Shirehampton responded immediately, with Oscar Sealey breaking through a static Welton defence only to lift his effort over the bar from close range. Welton continued to create chances but were unable to find the breakthrough. They did have the ball in the net from a corner, but the referee ruled it out for pushing.

As half-time approached, Shirehampton grew in confidence, and full-back Dan Mornes went close with a shot on the turn that flew just over the bar.

The visitors took the lead in the 40th minute. Joe Taylor’s low strike was blocked by Sam Thomson’s legs, but the rebound spun kindly to Harry Pegler, who finished into an empty net. Right on the stroke of half-time, Harry Neil met a Welton corner with a firm header, but Webster gathered comfortably.

Welton made several substitutions at the interval and almost levelled when a 20‑yard free-kick was headed goalwards by Jordan Pinder, only for Webster to deny him.

As Welton began to tire, Shirehampton’s pace on the counter became increasingly threatening. Mornes broke down the right and slid the ball through to Louis Snailham, who finished confidently to double the lead.

Welton attempted to respond, with Chris Pile cutting in from the right and forcing another save from Webster’s trailing leg.

Shirehampton sealed the points in the 72nd minute when Ryan Radford struck a powerful shot beyond Thomson.

Next Saturday, August 8, Welton v Bitton (3p.m.).

Bob Allard