Two-goal deficit proves too much for the 'Arms

CRAVEN Arms tried to come back from a two-goal deficit, but in spite of a spirited last quarter, they had to give best to their well-organised visitors and missed a chance to move up the Shropshire County Premier League table.

Danny Crowther, always a threat to the visitors with his pace, created the best home chance of the first half when he picked up the ball in mid-field, moved left and rounded the right-back to cut in and fire on target, the Wellington goalkeeper doing well to save.

With the wind at their backs Wellington started to exert pressure and took the lead in the 26th minute, helped by sloppy defending. They attacked down the left and swung over a deep corner, the home defenders failing to challenge for the ball which dropped kindly for the Wellington striker to give goalkeeper Simon Watkins no chance with a crisp half-volley.

Within minutes of the restart Wellington extended their lead with almost a replica of the first goal, but this time from an attack down the right.

Again the deep cross was not covered at the far post and the visiting striker rose unopposed to head home his second goal.

Stung into action Craven Arms lifted their game and were rewarded mid-way through the half when central defender Mike Seaborne lifted a free kick deep into the Wellington box. Striker Steve Wilding nodded the ball down to supporting mid-fielder Mark Blent who lashed home an unstoppable volley.

Spurred by this success Craven Arms pushed up for the equaliser but found the Wellington defence a sound match for all their efforts.