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| A Team Match Reports (Season 2010 |
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Saturday 1st May 2010Stoke Rovers 5 - 3 Wells City AStoke gained revenge and ensured their division 1 status after coming from 3-1 down to beat Wells 5-3. Although Wells remain in second place this was a wake up call for the young team about passion and working the referee, and now still need 4 points from their last 2 games to cement a credible second place.Wells opened up brightly and went into a 2 goal lead through a Coppell header from a Maynard free kick and a deflected Crowther shot. Further chances were created but not taken to take the game away from Stoke. In the first half, Stoke's only opportunties came from corners and free kicks given by the over officious referee. From one such delivery just before half time, a Stoke striker bundled into keeper Phipps and although made no contact with the ball the referee somehow gave the goal to boost Stoke. Worse was to follow at the other end as Turner nodded past the keeper only to be taken out a la Schumacher v. Battison in the '82 world cup only for the official to take no action what so ever. Turner took no further part in the game.Stoke made changes for the second half and took the game to Wells by playing 3 up front but Caresalde and Jackson admirably stuck to their task and it was Wells who increased their lead when another Maynard free kick was misjudged by the home custodian and the ball sailed over his head to nestle in the net. Durnell and Brett had good chances to reduce the arrears but lady luck was on Wells side. The referee then got under both sets of players skins with too many silly free kicks and constantly over ruling or ignoring both linesmen and this culminated in him giving Stoke a penalty after Shepherd had taken the ball in a challenge that was a yard outside the box. After no appeals from Stoke, 1 player was even retrieving the ball to take the throw in, the Wells team were aghast at the given decision especially as the spot kick was clinically taken. This visably deflated Wells and earned bookings including Pledger. Stoke took advantage and raised the passion stakes and forced the equaliser with a low Durnell drive. At the kick off, Pledger and Coppell took it too quickly for the man in blacks liking which, after again showing his inexperience, Pledger received a second yellow for dissent and thererfore his marching orders. Wells had a further penalty appeal turned turned down for handball on the line and Maynard then had to leave the field after a collision and Stoke took great advantage of the extra man and reorganisation by forcing 2 more goals in the final 10 minutes.Congratulations to Stoke for playing the conditions better and Wells must learn form many mistakes. This Wells loss saw Pilton's promotion to the top flight confirmed after their earlier 5-0 demolition of Frome Collegians, congratualtions to them for a second sucssesive promotion. Tuesday 27th April 2010Tunley Athletic Reserves 0 - 4 Wells City A What a difference 3 days makes. How a lacklustre Saturday performance could be turned into probably the best display of the season can only be answered by someone form above.A Coppell hat-trick and a Crowther screamer saw Wells travel back from Tunley with 3 points in the bag and smiles on their faces.Wells went into this game in hand knowing Tunley are no soft touch. What followed was as good a 90 minute all round display as you will see all year. Every player played their part from Davis in goal and the massively impressive Careslade at the back through to the evergreen Coppell up front.After a cagey first 10, Wells opened the scoring from a Coombes corner when Turner's misguided header fell to Coppell to notch his first from 3 yards out. Palmer and Careslade had to be at their defensive best thereafter as Tunley came to the fore. Davis was called upon twice and did extremely well to smother at the attackers feet and react to belie his years to stop the goal bound rebound.Coombes and Shepherd found time in the midfield to release front runner Barnett and wide men Crowther and Hawkins to put pressure on the Tunley back four. The second goal arrived on 25 minutes when a move starting from Palmer saw 3 one touch passes to find Coppell who's precise flick was met by the onrushing Crowther to superbly drive first time into the bottom corner. Tunleys heads dropped instantly and Wells played out the remainder of the half in comfort with only a couple of corners and long throws to adequately defend.Wells should have finished the game and gone 3-0 to the good within 20 seconds of the restart but Barnetts lob fell the wrong side of the up right. Tunley never really had a sniff and Wells played some attractive attacking football given the space and licence to do so. Pledger was introduced for Barnett and Hall for Palmer which saw Shepherd drop back into the defensive fold. Pledger was on a mission, and soon went on 2 mazy runs which caused havoc in Tunley's defensive ranks. A third run down the right saw him take out 2 defenders and cross superbly for Coppell to volley a well worked third for Wells. A similar run 10 minutes later produced a penalty when a home full back handled in the area. Despite Hall's eagerness, Coppell stepped up to send the keeper the wrong way and notch a career lengthening hat-trick.The last 15 minutes were played out in style but even with the safety of a 4 gaol cushion the familiar traits of not taking created chances was again apparent.The 3 points see Wells remain second with 3 games to go. However the season finishes they are guaranteed third place as a minimum which is a great effort on their first season in this division and especially after using 9 players of 19 years old and younger throughout the season. Saturday 24th April 2010Wells City A 1 - 1 OakhillWells can only be kicking themselves for not taking all 3 points from this game.Played on the oasis at Rowdens Road, the young Wells team created far too many chances for them only to muster one goal. As is the norm, the visitors created 2 worthwhile chances and scored 1 of them.Oakhill have been Wells' bogie team this year and so it proved again on Saturday. Fielding only 11 players and a 62 year old substitute they stuck to their task and were thankful to get a point at the end of the 90 minutes. Wells at times, and especially in front of goal, were awful when measured to the high standards the young team have set.Wells opened the scoring midway through the 1st half when a nicely delivered Maynard free kick was sliced in to his own goal by an Oakhill defender. Wells then had the fair share of possession but could not force their way past the resolute Oakhill rearguard. Oakhill's attack plan was to put the ball in the box and snatch at what they could from long throws and corners but Salter missed a golden opportunity to equalise when 1 on 1 with Davis but blasted over the bar onto the relief road.Half time was met with silence in the dressing room as Wells knew they hadn't performed, however all they had to do was keep the clean sheet for 3 points.Eight worthwhile second half chances were created but Crowther, Pledger, Barnett and Turner were wasteful or not committed enough with their efforts. The sucker punch duly arrived mid way through the half when a high boot challenge given half a dozen times in the first half by the over zealous referee went unpunished for the Oakhill forward to cross far post for his colleague to head the equaliser.Hawkins, who had played well all game, and Pledger were replaced by Coppell and Hayes and despite 80% of the remaining minutes being spent in the Oakhill half a second Wells goal could not be found.Although this point keeps Wells in second place thanks to Pilton's victory over Evercreech, this 90 minutes summed up Wells' season as at times, despite playing neat, attacking football on all kinds of surfaces the chances created to goal scored ratio has been very poor and too many times they have failed to close out games when leading. A disappointed management team need to go back to the drawing board for the vital run in. Tuesday 20th April 2010Wells City A 0 - 0 Stoke RoversAnother lively fixture took place between these two teams on Tuesday.Wells again were nowhere near their best but created enough chances to get more from the game. Although Romain for Stoke had the 2 best chances in either half, on reflection a draw was the only fair result.Stoke started the first half brightly and linked well through the midfield and forward area. Romain and Brett up front created chances and hesitation in the Wells back line didn't help matters at times. Barnett and Pledger combined well for Wells and after Romain's decent chance for Stoke Pledger badly fluffed a one on one with Preece in the visitors goal.The second half did see Wells become more assertive going forward but again the lack of a finishing touch in the penalty area cost them dearly. Substitute Coppell had a header cleared of the line by the back tracking Watch but the away custodian was rarely tested. At the other end Roamin could have snatched all 3 points when his pace took him through and around Phipps only to see his drive rebound off the post.A nervy last 10 minutes for both teams finished in a stalemate and a share of the points. Saturday 17th April 2010Frome Collegians Reserves 0 - 4 Wells City AWells remain third in division 1 with a well earned victory away to Frome.Frustration was the name of the game in the first half as Frome set out their stool to purely defend and counter attack. Despite the back line getting caught out on a couple of occasions, Davis in the Wells goal was hardly called upon throughout the 90 minutes and the pleasing aspect of a clean sheet was easily kept. However, at the other end chances were spurned at regualr intervals and as the half wore on the dreaded thought of a 0-0 stalemate crept in.Despite a bumpy and, in areas, grassless pitch Wells stuck to their task and produced periods of good footballing moves. Shepherd, Hall and Turner dominated the middle of the park and Crowther and Careslde got in some great positons down the flanks but their crosses, and other set peice deliveries, were not put away despite slack markings and free headers. Wells also had 4 penalty shouts for handball waived away by the man in black and 2 efforts cleared off the line.After discussing a "few basic points" over the half time oranges Wells flew out of the traps and spent 80% of the second half camped in their tired hosts half. Within 2 minutes Hall had a free header from a well delivered Palmer free-kick and Pledger and Barnett also had chances to opening the scoring. Thankfully, to ease the nerves a Crowther long throw was flicked on at the front post for Barnett to ghost in to eventually notch Wells' first. Despite 3 more half chances from corners Wells could not force a second and Frome then had their only worthwhile 5 minute attacking period which caused a few jitters for the Wells back line. On 60 minutes the game was all but over when a Crowther free kick was delivered to the unmarked Hall at the far post to head the visitors second. Barnett then collected his confidence boosting second with a well placed effort inside the box. Coombes was introduced for Turner and Apfelstedt for Jackson as Frome tried to get something out of the game. A fractious last quarter saw Pledger booked when showing his inexperience by reacting to provocation but he did have the last laugh by scoring the goal of the game from the edge of the box to wrap up the 4-0 victory. Saturday 10th April 2010Wells City A 2 - 1 Stoke RoversA hard fought encounter saw Wells progress to the Dimmock Green Cup final on Saturday. Both teams played out a battling game, but although not at their best, Wells clinched the tie with two late second half goals from Julian Coppell. The first half finished 0 - 0 with both teams not creating too many worthwhile chances. Stoke had the best opportunity when the Wells defence were static from a dead ball knockdown but Allen could not get his effort on target when he reacted quickly to nick in-between two defenders. Apart from this Palmer and Jackson stuck to their tasks to thwart any chances Stoke's two strikers may have had. The injured Marsh and the absent Caresalde may struggle to get back in such is the form and maturity young Jackson has shown since making his debut last week. At the other end Crowther and Hall didn't get their usual service out wide for them to put balls into the box and the central midfield area was more of a battle than pretty touches. Pledger and Coppell linked well a couple of times but no end product was forthcoming. The game sprang into life in the final third when Stoke opening the scoring when Maynard missed a clearing header and the ball eluded Palmer to find the Brett who fired past Phipps from an angle. As is the norm, this woke Wells up and within 5 minutes they were on level terms. A move involving Palmer, captain Turner and Apflestadt found its way to Pledger on the right who's low cross was met by Coppell to notch the equaliser. Both teams then went for the winner but it was Wells who went closer with Crowther hitting the bar after good work from Coombes and Maynard hitting the post from a free kick but Stoke had chances, bringing the best out of Phipps on a couple of occasions. The winner arrived on 82 minutes when another ball into the box saw Coppell find space at the far post to volley into the net. Stoke then pushed men forward and Hayes and Falck were brought on to bolster the back line. Despite being camped in the Wells half for the final 5 minutes Stoke could not force an equaliser and the final whistle was a welcome sound for the Wells faithful. Saturday 3rd April 2010Wells City A 3 - 3 Evercreech RoversThe battle for promotion is hotting up in the first division of the Mid Somerset League as second placed Wells City A drew 3-3 with third placed Evercreech Rovers on a wet Easter Saturday. Pilton United remain the title favourites, but both Wells City and Evercreech will look to continue to scrap for the second promotion spot. Despite the heavy underfoot conditions, both sides served up an exciting encounter and although Wells shaded the game in terms of possession and chances, Evercreech just about deserved the share of the spoils with a battling display over the 90 minutes. The visitors made the best possible start by opening the scoring on 6 minutes. A Brad Downton throw in somehow eluded the Wells defence and Stuart Vaughan who was stood almost on the penalty spot, lifted a right foot shot over Rob Davis and into the roof of the net. Vaughan went close once again just 90 seconds later as he unleashed a fine shot from 18 yards that flew inches over the crossbar. Wells first opportunity almost brought an equalising goal on 10 minutes when a deep Ryan Crowther cross to the far post was met on the volley by Mike Barnett, but his close range side foot was well smothered by goalkeeper Shaun Partridge. The home side did get themselves back on level terms on 12 minutes when a Ryan Pledger cross from the right was diverted into his own net by Alex Chant. Chant almost made amends as his superb long free kick into the Wells penalty area saw Craig Rothwell head inches wide having got in between two defenders. Evercreech regained the lead midway through the half when another defensive mix up allowed Vaughan to score his second of the game as he walked the ball into an empty net. Vaughan was then denied a hat trick on 34 minutes when a timely Barry Maynard tackle averted the danger as Vaughan appeared to be left in a one on one with Robbie Davis. Wells should have equalised when a wonderfully measured cross from Ryan Crowther found Barnett completely unmarked on the edge of the six yard box, but the youngster somehow failed to make contact with the goal at his mercy. Wells did get themselves back on level terms on 52 minutes, when a superb break down the right flank by the impressive Steve Careslade, saw his cross into the box glanced on by the head of Zak Hall to the back post where Crowther did really well to find the back of the net with a left foot volley from a tight angle. Craig Rothwell went close for the visitors with a left foot shot, but it was Wells who looked the more likely side to score, but they failed to convert those chances into goals. Wells eventually took the lead for the first time, this after Crowther had hit a post from a brilliant through ball from Zak Hall. Ryan Pledger picked up the ball from a throw in before side stepping a defender and he sent a superb right foot shot low into the far corner of the net on 69 minutes. Evercreech then forced a late equaliser on 84 minutes when a decent enough clearance from Barry Maynard found the unmarked Kane Downton 20 yards from goal. Downton’s shot lacked power, but it somehow squirmed under the body of Robbie Davis, although the keeper might very well have had his vision impaired by a defender who was stood in front of him. Barry Maynard did create one final chance for Wells as he surged through the heart of the Evercreech defence, but his low drive from 18 yards was comfortably saved by Partridrge.Merv’s merit marks: Wells City A-R Davis 6, S Careslade 8, J Jackson 7, B MAYNARD 9, M Sheppard 7, R Turner 6, H Falck 5, Z Hall 7, R Pledger 7, M Barnett 5, R Crowther 7Evercreech-S Partridge 6, S Baker 6, K Downton 7, A Chant 7, B Downton 7, P Parsons 6, S VAUGHAN 9, C Rothwell 7, S Kearn 7, J Osborne 6, P Thomson 6Referee: Lee Curtis 7Entertainment value: 8 Saturday 27th March 2010Wells City A 3 - 0 Coleford AthleticWells progressed to the semi finals of the Dimmock Green cup with a deserved victory over their premier league visitors.The Blue School surface was not the best and with a gusty breeze, free flowing football was never going to be the order of the day. Coleford had the share of the possession in the first half with the wind in their favour but apart from a few corners Phipps in the home goal was called upon to make one great save from a visiting midfielders drive. An early change was again in order as this time captain Marsh's ankle took a heavy knock early in the game. The versatile Hayes, relishing a first start up top, was called back to the rearguard and demonstrated his experience by filling in adequately. At the other end Wells hit Coleford on the counter but could not squeeze out any worthwhile efforts. The opening goal came on 30 minutes from a Van de Peer long throw which bobbled around the box and ended with Palmer getting the last touch. The hosts then comfortably saw out the remainder of the half knowing that a keeping a clean sheet for once would see them through.The second period saw Coleford come out of the traps brightly and Wells had to be at their defensive best and ride their luck for the first 10 minutes. Once they had settled they gained more and more of the upper hand and with the wind now in their favour looked the more likely to score again. After Pledger had made and spurned 2 great chances, Turner found himself in the box to coolly finish from Coppell's cut back. This took the wind out of Colford's sails and it was no surprise when Pledger scored Wells' third, and his thirteenth for the season.Coleford has one great chance to reduce the arrears but the back tracking Hall got a block in on the experienced Billings goal bound drive and then Hayes diverted a cross onto his own post. Debutant Apflestedt could have then added a fourth but somehow misjudged the flight when well placed at the far post from a corner and Crowther placed a sight footed volley over the bar after a great run into the box.Credit goes to the young Wells team who matched their more experienced opponents when it mattered. The game ended with a midfield consisting of 2 eighteen year olds, 2 seventeen year olds and a sixteen year old who do not look out of place and is a credit to the youth system and managers who keep bringing these players through. Saturday 20th March 2010Oakhill 2 - 1 Wells City AWell, we can finally say we told you so. If you don't listen and learn from your mistakes they will come back and bite you in the proverbial. After weeks of getting away with it and being told it could happen, the unfortunate young Wells team snatched defeat from the jaws of victory by gifting Oakhill two second half goals.After a very early re-shuffle when Barry Maynard succumbed to the Age Concern worries about his rickety back, Wells dominated the first half possession and territory wise. Mark Phipps was only called upon twice but the lively Greenham could have scored for Oakhill with a shot in the box in a very one sided first half. At the other end Wells forced 23 first half corners and despite good deliveries from Zak Hall and the ever impressive Ryan Crowther, the attacking personnel never tested the home keeper. The closest Wells got to breaking the deadlock was when Rob Turner, Ryan Pledger and Simon Coombes combined to feed Martyn Shepherd who's 25 yarder forced a tip onto the bar from the home custodian. Despite playing patches of very neat football the killer punch in front of goal was missing as has been the story this season.After a stern talking to over the half time oranges, Wells came out full of running and eventually Pledger increased his goal tally for the season with a well taken finish after 10 minutes. Wells kept the forward momentum and with luck on their side could have easily gone 2-0 or even 3-0 to the good but shots were blocked and Reuben Van de Peer was unfortunate to have a goal bound effort cleared off the line. Crowther down the left was a constant thorn in the Oakhill ranks. After lessons from previous games Wells should have by now, learnt the need to close out these games. Although never being asked to sit back and defend a lead, very simple instructions of not tracking you man, do you really need push that far, make use of the extra man, clear your lines instantly etc are still not being heeded. Oakhill are a very resolute outfit full of experience and 1 or 2 lively runners who will stick to their task for the whole 90 minutes. After having so many first half corners with no conversion it was inevitable that Oakhill's 2 goals came from their own corners in the second period. Despite a warning of a free header form Spirrell the previous corner, which luckily ended straight into Phipps' chest, a good delivery was allowed to go across the 6 yard box to find Butler unmarked to notch the equaliser. Only 5 minutes later a poorly delivered Race corner from the opposite flank was inadvertently left by post man Hall after a dodgy 'leave it' shout from a defender which saw the ball trickle into the net. Wells then had 15 minutes to rescue something out of a game they should easily have won but some solid defending and poor deliveries never saw the keeper tested. Credit to Oakhill who simply stuck to their tasks, played the way they play and ended up with the 3 points.This was only Wells' second league loss of the season, and a bitter pill to swallow form the silence of the changing room afterwards. Saturday 13th March 2010Temple Cloud 2 - 2 Wells City A3 - 2 on penalties.Wells' participation in the Clark Cup fell at the second hurdle when their two Achilles heels of not taking chances and not closing out games came to the fore again.Although making a couple of changes due to players not being eligible to play in cup games, Wells had more than enough personnel to put up a worthy challenge. Two lapses in concentration enabled the hosts to score in each half to negate any good work Wells had done to get back into the game. The final penalty lottery summed up the day when Wells had two penalties saved and one blasted over the bar.The teams were evenly matched in the first 15 minutes and Wells were forced to make an early change when Hayes received a nose injury. Wasteful passes were in order all afternoon and too many players used the wrong option when they had time to control and look up. The first goal went to the hosts after 20 minutes when a through ball ended with Phipps racing outside his box only to see his clearance unfortunately ricochet off of the back peddling Careslade in to the path of a Temple player who stroked into the unguarded net. Wells responded by creating chances which were not taken until Pledger tried his luck with a 30 yarder which sailed over the keeper and into the net to equalise. Wells then had their best spell of the game and Pleadger muscled his way past 2 defenders and placed perfectly past the home custodian to give Wells the lead. Palmer then had a good chance to increase but this was smothered by the overworked keeper.The second period started as the first but Wells could not get anywhere near their potential and it was no surprise when a Temple midfielder found himself unmarked and in plenty of space on the edge of the box to shoot past Phipps. The remainder of the game was frustrating for both players and supporters as Wells could not make one passing movement and instead relied on Caresalde's long throws to cause havoc in the home box. Coppell was well placed to nod the potential winner when Pleadger rose in front of him, and off balance missed the target. He then had a chance to redeem himself and bag his hat-trick with virtually the last attack of the 90 minutes but when clean through on goal picked out the keeper when one on one.There were a few scares at both ends during the 30 minute extra period but nothing could separate the teams when referee Rodney Angel, who had a very good game in the middle, blew for the inevitable penalty shoot out. Wells must eventually learn from their mishaps and get back to winning ways. Saturday 6th March 2010Frome Town Sports Reserves 0 - 4 Wells City AWells' winning streak continued with a comfortable win over bottom of the table Frome Sports.Fielding no fewer than 8 players under 20 the visitors dominated the game for long periods. Such was the ease of the victory, keeper Davis was only called upon twice, once when Marsh tried to lift the boredom with a short back pass and once when a misplaced pass let a Frome forward through but Davis came out on top on a one on one situation.Wells were in front after just 3 minutes. A free kick awarded in the hosts half was quickly taken by Maynard who's decent delivery found Hall to glance the ball past the keeper with a deft header. After 10 minutes, and after numerous corners, a scramble which saw Marsh have 2 efforts cleared off the line eventually saw the ball rocketed into the back of net by Turner from 10 yards. Despite superior possession and territorial advantage Wells could not find more goals despite good efforts from Falck, Careslade and skipper Shepherd. Tireless running from frontrunners Barnett and Pledger created further untaken chances for each other and Hall. The game was all but over 5 minutes before half time when a rare Frome foray in Wells' half was halted by Shepherd who fed Maynard to stroke a long, neat through ball into the path of Crowther who latched onto it without breaking stride and beat the keeper with ease.Wells were asked to purely concentrate on keeping a clean sheet for the second half, a feat completed with ease once the flagging Frome team reverted to long, hopeful punts to clear their lines. Palmer, Hayes and Coombes were introduced to add a bit of composure (and increase the average age). The only real talking point was how many Wells would score before the final whistle. Despite creating space every time they went forward a lack of quality delivery and wasteful finishing saw the Frome goal live a charmed life. The fourth and final goal eventually came on 80 minutes when Shepherd fed Hall on the flank who raced to the by-line and crossed to Crowther who neatly headed his second.Wells remain at the right end of the table and have now played half their league games. They know there will be far sterner tests than this game but the future bodes well with the strength of young talent vying for places all over the pitch. Man of the Match Robbie Turner. Saturday 20th February 2010Glastonbury Town Reserves 1 - 3 Wells City AWells completed the double over their near neighbours to capitalise on last weeks victory over league leaders Pilton.A mostly forgettable, disjointed game saw Wells net through Rob Turner, Mike Barnett and Mark Hayes with Glastonbury replying through substitute Redman.The local derby will only be remembered for one, maybe two clumsy, mistimed challenges but the referee deemed fit to issue no fewer than 7 or 8 yellow cards and send off Glastonbury striker Ford for one too many verbals. The 90 minutes was never a classic with both teams struggling to pass on the boggy surface but Wells ran out winners by taking their chances more clinically.Wells move back up to second place with games in hand on their closest rivals while Glastonbury remain in their mid table berth. Saturday 13th February 2010Wells City A 2 - 1 Pilton UtdA much anticipated encounter took place in front of a good size, forty plus crowd eager to see a well contested game.Wells started brightly with the wind to their advantage down the slope forcing 3 corners that were easily dealt with by the Pilton defence, but it was Pilton who drew first blood from one such corner when a quick break released Wilmott down the right who drilled in a low cross that was going wide only for the the unfortunate Steve Caresalde to deflect into his own net on 10 minutes.Pilton then had a good spell which saw the young Wells midfield being taught a lesson in movement off the ball and with Burr and Wetherall up front showing good touches, one passage of play saw Weatherall have the chance to increase the lead but brought the best out of Rob Davis in the Wells goal. Once the young Wells side settled and realised what they had to do to compete they came into the game more and after spurning a couple of chances,a move on 25 minutes one ended with Rob Turner feeding the impressive Ryan Crowther who unleashed a superb 25 yard thunderbolt into the top far corner giving Dury no chance. This spurred Wells into action and they had the best of the exchanges for the remainder of the half with Mike Barnett and Ryan Pledger combining well on a couple of occasions but not testing the keeper. With the backline rarely troubled once Pilton reverted to the long ball out it was a surprise Wells didn't go into the break in front as both Turner and Barnett could have netted and Reuben Van de Peer sent the ball to Glastonbury when 6 yards out in front of goal.The second half started much the same but as time wore on Pilton had far more possession and territory but could not turn this into goals. The impressive Pilton captain Bennett had a goal chalked off after a foul on keeper Davis and both Pilton wide men made numerous chances with balls into the box. Wells were by no means out of it and on another day Barnett could have netted a hatrick after being set up by Pledger, Zak Hall and Crowther. Poor finishing and well placed defending kept the scores level.Play started to get a bit spirited with both sides seeing players going into referee Arthur Jones' book and a stop start feel developed which suited Wells as Pilton could not keep any forward momentum going. The turning point of the whole game came on 70 minutes when from a Wells corner the onrushing Marsh was adjudged to be pushed to the ground and referee Jones had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Substitute Palmer the hit the back of the net from 12 yards, sending Dury the wrong way. Julian Coppell replaced Barry Maynard, Hayes replaced Barnett for Wells and Harris replaced Burr to push Bennett up front for Pilton. The last 10 minutes came and went with Pilton to the fore, having chances and freekicks that didn't really trouble Davis. The final whistle was a welcome sound for Wells who were by no means outplayed and fully deserved to take all the points to inflict Pilton's first defeat in all competitions this season. Nolan's Pilton remain strong favourites for the division 1 title despite this setback and Wells' young team can take heart from the fact that after a nervy first 15 minutes they more than matched their more experienced opponents and at times played the more measured football.Manager Maynard said after the game "I told the younger lads not to worry about the result but to focus on enjoying it and learning from the experience. If you were a spectator over the 90 minutes I'm sure you would feel once they found their feet they weren't overawed. The benefit of having a midfield of two 17 year olds and two 18 year olds is they can only get wiser and better. I thought both Robbie (Turner) and Ryan (Crowther) were great and should rightly share any man of the match plaudits. Pledger never stopped and with more games under his belt Barnett should get back to the form that saw him hit 20 plus goals last season. Saturday 30th January 2010Wells City A 3 - 1 Frome Collegians ResPutting last weeks performance behind them, a much improved display saw Wells run out comfortable winners in this Clark Cup tie.After an even first 10 minutes Wells came out of their shackles and took the game to the visitors with some slick pass and movement attacking. Chances were created for front runners Coppell and Pledger from Turner's and Van de Peer's raids down the flanks but in wasn't until the 22nd minute that Coppell found the back of the net with a deft header from a quickly worked Maynard free kick. With Phipps a virtual spectator apart from one long range pea roller, his second touch after 30 minutes was a long kick to Coppell who headed into the path of Pledger to coolly finish a route one move past the keeper. Coppell then had a goal disallowed from a flicked on long throw and Palmer, Turner, Pledger and Hall should have worked the keeper or hit the target from shots when well placed.With Coombes probing from his midfield role it came as a surprise that half time arrived with the score at only 2-0 such was the hosts superior possesion and chances created.Frome started the second period more brightly but Marsh and Careslade were excellent in their defensive roles and Wells relied on a counter attack game plan as they could not match their first half strides. The sucker punch came after 65 minutes when Frome broke down the right and a low cross arrived at the back post for their left winger for the easiest tap in to give Frome hope. As the norm, this woke the hosts up and chances were made for Coppell, Van de Peer and Pledger but not taken. A nervy last 10 minutes was made easier when after promising work from substitute Hayes linking with Coombes found Coppell in acres to place his seond into the bottom corner.Referee Richard Wheatley put in a good performance and let the game flow at all times. Manager Maynard said after the game "After last weeks big disappointment Mark (Phipps) and myself were very pleased with the attitude as much as the performance of a number of players. We now get back to league duties with 4 games in a row which will shape our season, and with 3 reinstated players now available for league games it feels like you have a new squad. Unfortunately, this does mean casualties and people's noses put out of place as they will beleive they are better than the next man, but most players have been given the chance to impress both in cup games and training" Saturday 23rd January 2010White Hart Rangers 3 - 2 Wells City AAfter extra timeA lacklustre performance saw Wells knocked out of the Somerset Intermediate cup on Saturday. After going ahead twice, Wells did not have the composure or savvy to take the game away from their very mediocre hosts. General inactivity over the past 5 weeks could be partially to blame but simple mistakes led to all 3 of the home team goals and if it wasn't for the performance of Wells custodian Phipps, the score after extra time could have been more embarrassing. Wells started brightly in both halves, indeed scoring within the first 10 minutes of each period. The first came from a Hall corner where Marsh's flick was stabbed home by Palmer. The floodgates shouldn't have exactly opened but as has been the par this season, several chances were made but not taken. Crowther, Coppell and Palmer had shots / half chances that went begging and Hall had a header from the best move of the match well saved. Don't get the impression White Hart were out of the game, but the chances they were given were created by naivety throughout the Wells team of holding the ball for too long, passes going astray and general failures in marking players. This culminated in a rare mistake from Basket which allowed a White Hart front runner to steal in and catch Phipps nowhere near his goal. Again the start of the second period saw Wells in control and a 10 pass move ended with Coppell following up the keepers parry to notch the lead again. With only a speedy left winger as an outlet White Hart couldn't create anything worthwhile unless Wells didn't stick to their shape and game plan. Again and again, wrong decisions and slack marking enabled the hosts to create chances on the break and it was no surprise when they equalised to take the game into extra time. By this time the Rangers were basically playing a 1-6-1-3 formation due to general unfitness but Wells could not use their superior possession advantage to the good. An even 1st period now saw both teams breathing heavy and trying to do too much when the simple ball was by far the easiest option. The second period should have seen Wells take the game away as chance after chance went begging and cross after cross were not latched onto but also had Phipps to thank on at least 3 occasions. The sucker punch came with 5 minutes remaining when with too many Wells players looking for the winner a break similar to the 2nd goal ended when the home forward rammed in the winner from an acute angle. Despite 5 minutes bombardment of the hosts goal Wells could not and did not deserve to get back on level terms. A full programme of fixtures in February must see Wells play to their no doubted potential as their season could well be over in the space of the next four games. Saturday 12th December 2009Temple Cloud 3 – 2 Wells City AFollowing last week’s cup win against Evercreech, Wells rang the changes for this Mid Somerset Charity Cup match and used the squad rotation system for the management to cast an eye over some players who had not figured for a few weeks. From the start Wells looked the better side and took the lead on 15 minutes when a long corner from Zak Hall completely cleared all the defenders and the ball landed at the feet of James Basket who took one touch and hit the ball on the half volley into the roof of the net. From then on Wells should have capitalized but instead chances went begging and the inevitable happened when Temple scored from a corner when a player was left unmarked and had the easiest of chances to equalize. Wells then seemed nervous and Temple were rewarded with their pressure, scoring from a failed clearance. Wells still created chances but could not score and Temple went 3 - 1 up on the stroke of half time when a mix up between Mark Phipps and James Basket allowed the striker the easiest of tap ins to make it 3 -1 at half time. The second half was very much stale mate with Wells making three substitutions in quick succession but still couldn’t get that goal to kick start the half. With 10 minutes remaining Wells got a penalty when Zak Hall was adjudged to have been pushed in the box from a corner. Zak stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, and the last 10 minutes were all Wells but they just couldn’t get the equalizer to take the game to extra time. Manager Barry Maynard said after the game, “We will come up against better sides than Temple this season and win with a performance like today, it’s disappointing but me and Phippsy have had a chance to see what some of the players can and can’t do” Saturday 5th December 2009Evercreech 1 - 2 Wells City AAfter extra time.Following an abandonment and a postponement this second round Intermediate cup game finally got under way on a very sticky pitch. This was always going to be a close encounter judging by the results from the previous two meetings and that was the case. Both sides tried to play football but the conditions didn't allow and Wells had the better of the chances in the opening 20 minutes. Evercreech broke the deadlock on 26 minutes when a sliced clearance by Chris Marsh fell to the feet of an unmarked Evercreech player who took a touch and stroked the ball into the net leaving Mark Phipps no chance. This then spurred Wells on with good work from Ryan Crowther and Steve Careslade down the flanks, but chances went begging with Chris Marsh hitting the post and Julian Coppell hitting the crossbar. Wells drew level on 40 minutes when a cleared corner by Evercreech fell to the feet of Mike Charlton, who hit a first time shot into the top left hand corner. The second half was very much stale mate with Wells having the better of the chances, although Evercreech should have been reduced to 10 men after an over zealous lunge by the left winger, only to see a yellow card branded by the referee. This was one of a number of strange decisions by the official, who appeared to be over officious, which included a yellow card to Barry Maynard for taking a quick free kick even after the ref had given him permission to. With extra time looming Wells continued to push for a winner but Evercreech held on. So extra time (again). Wells made three substitutions, bringing on Mark Hayes, Heath Falck and Simon Coombes to replace Coppell,Careslade and Maynard, and began in much the same way and with the pitch deteriorating fast Wells got what was to be the winner on 102 minutes when a long corner eluded the Evercreech defence and fell to the feet of Mike Charlton at the far post, who smashed the ball into the roof of the net. This was a deserved win on the balance of play with Wells' backline of Mark Phipps, James Basket, Mike Charlton and Adam Laing looking solid throughout, with the midfield of Barry Maynard, Rob Turner, Chris Marsh, Ryan Crowther and Steve Careslade working tirelessly to protect the defence as well as support the front pairing of Julian Coppell and Zak Hall, not forgetting the subs Mark Hayes, Heath Falck and Simon Coombes who all played their part in extra time. Saturday 21st November 2009Evercreech Rovers 2 - 2 Wells City AAbandonedWells travelled to Evercreech to play in the second round of the Somerset Intermediate Cup. Both teams played well despite the adverse weather conditions. Evercreech scored the first goal when Wells keeper Mark Phipps miskicked a backpass as the ball hit a bump and the Evercreech striker had an easy tap in. Wells continued to play good football, creating several chances. Zak Hall coming extremely close, hitting the bar twice. Ryan Cowther provided some useful crosses, but the Evercreech keeper kept Wells at bay. In the second half the wind seemed to pick up even more and the rain continued to pour, making the pitch very wet, although this did not stop Wells playing good passing football. On the 51st minute Wells got their reward, James 'Basko' Basket thumping in a 25 yarder! His goal celebration was something to be admired as well, a 25 yard run/dive/slide. Wells got their second on the 71st minute when Barry 'twinkle toes' Maynard was brought down on the edge of the box, after another dazzling run. Up stepped Ryan 'Giggs' Crowther who calmly slotted the free kick into the top corner. David Beckham would have been proud of that one. Evercreech got the equaliser in the 84th minute. This sent the game into extra time. But unfortunately due to the horrendous conditions, the game had to be abandoned at the start of the second half. The pitch was now a mud bath and the light had faded dramatically. Overall there was strong performances from all, especially young Rob 'Hooch' Turner, Heath 'Falcky' Falck, Mark 'safe hands' Phipps, Zak 'tricky feet' Hall, Ryan 'Giggs' Crowther, Chris 'Red' Marsh and Man of the Match Barry Maynard. Saturday 31st October 2009Wells City A 0 - 0 Frome Town Sports ReservesIt was top of the league versus bottom. 3 points you think you would be guaranteed. But as so often happens, it was not the case. In the first half Wells created chances, but could not capitalise on any. Ryan Crowther and Rob Turner linked well down the left, Ryan providing some useful crosses but nobody was getting on the end of them. After the half time break and after the Manager's talking too, Wells continued to push forward. but Wells just couldn't get that clear cut chance. Ryan Pledger was introduced 15 minutes into the second half. He soon got into the game but unfortunately, found the side of the netting twice, Steve Careslade missed a one-on-one when he had time to eat a 3 course meal. Indiscipline started to creep in with the frustration of not scoring. It just wasn't going to be Wells’ day. Although Frome certainly didn't play like a team who are bottom of the table. The back four Rob Davis in goal, James Basket, Chris Marsch and Adam Laing looked solid and never looked like conceding. Adam Laing getting Man of the Match. Manager Maynard said after the game “Phippsy and I are very disappointed with today’s performance. We had to leave 3 players out, excluding ourselves, to accommodate certain individuals who we thought warranted a place. Although still unbeaten at home, the effort as a team was very lackluster. We have managed to get ourselves into a merited league position but unfortunately, seem to have built ourselves up thinking we’ll turn up and win regardless of how we perform, but this display shows you have got to work hard against every team, not take anything for granted and turn up with the right mentality and body language whatever standard you aspire to.” Saturday 24th October 2009Wells City A 2 - 1 Sun SportsWells City A entertained Sun Sports in the second round of The Dimmock Green Cup. Both teams lying top of their respective leagues, this was to be an exciting local derby. Unfortunately the blustery conditions made it very difficult for both teams to produce the fast, flowing, attractive football that has been produced all season. Wells took the lead, a far post header straight from the training ground, from Chris Marsh. Phipps was called upon on more than one occasion to thwart the Sun attack. The second goal on 39 minutes, again by Wells. Ryan Pledger pouncing after the Sun keeper totally missed a clearance and he calmly slotted the ball home. In the second half the wind seemed to pick up even more. Sun Sports continued to battle on and their reward came in the 59th minute. Wells eventually held on again thanks to some good goalkeeping from Phipps, and some tireless running from the midfield, Wells deservedly came out on top. Man of the Match Mark Phipps. Saturday 17th October 2009Old Inn Allatars 0 - 7 Wells City AWells travelled to Bishops Hull for this 1st round of the Somerset Intermediate Cup match, started well with two goals disallowed for dubious offsides in the first 15 minutes. There was more good work from Julian Coppell, Rob Turner, Jack Palmer and Zak Hall scored on the 1/2 hour to break the deadlock and give the Blues their deserved lead. This was soon followed by another goal, this time Rob Turner. Phipps spared the Wells defence some embarrassment with a good 1 on 1 save to keep the score 2 - 0 at half time.
The second half saw Zak Hall get his second followed on 60 minutes by team captain Chris Marsh to make it 4-0. Julian Coppell added another. Wells were certainly in command and Simon Coombes made it 6 -o before Barry Maynard completed the rout adding to the score sheet to win the game 7-0. Today was a good team performance with the right balance of youth & experienced players. Thanks to Brick Peers for providing the transport and for John Russell for driving. Man of the match Zak Hall, Saturday 10th October 2009Temple Cloud 1 - 3 Wells City AWells started well with a goal after 4 minutes from Ryan Crowther and continued to attack the oppositions goal but on 20 minutes, Temple cloud leveled following a howler from Mark Phipps in the Wells goal.Within 30 seconds of the start of the 2nd half preesure from the Wells front line forced an OG, within minutes Wells increased their lead with a well worked goal from the industrious Zak Hall.Wells continued to pile on the pressure with attempts from Jack Palmer and the ever youthful Julian Coppell, but ran out worthy winners. Performances to note from Steve Careslade and Barry Maynard but an altogether pleasing and deserved win away from home.Man of match Adam Laing. Saturday 3rd October 2009Wells City A 3 - 2 Frome Collegians ReservesWells started well with a good early goal from Jack Palmer, followed on 14 mins with another from Ryan Pledger; the Blues continued to dominate the 1st half with good work from Steve Careslade & Ryan Crowther making his debut in senior football.The second half started with Frome coming out strong, scoring 2 quick goals to level the score and would have taken the lead but for a fantastic save from Mark Phipps -neatly tipping the ball over the cross bar.Wells began to regain a strangle hold on the game and were rewarded with a goal from Adam Laing, to make it 3-2. Wells had a number of chances to score late on but were unable to increase their lead but overall were the stronger team.Man of the match -Ryan Crowther. Saturday 26th September 2009Evercreech 2 - 0 Wells City ADespite having a number of regular players unavailable, Wells were very strong in the first half producing a number of chances to score. Good work from Zak Hall, Martyn Sheppard and Jack Palmer in midfield caused the Evercreech backline all sorts of problems. Debutant Reuben Van Der Peer giving an impressive performance on the wing.In the 2nd half 2 defensive errors from set pieces gave Evercreech their opportunities to score. Despite the input of Mark Hayes and more efforts on goal, Wells were unable to capitalise on their domination. “If the game was marked on performance Wells would have been worthy winners and can take a lot of positives from this game.Man of the match for his ever reliable performance- Barry Maynard Saturday 19th September 2009Wells city A 3 - 1 Shepton Mallet AThis local derby started with a minutes silence in memory of Dean Gregory, a Shepton player who sadly passed away recently
Wells had the early advantage with some strong play and a goal from the ever youthful Julian Coppell settled early nerves.
Steve Careslade strong down the wing and good performance from Rob Turner until he had to leave the field late in the game with an injury, Wells kept up the pressure in the first half but were unlucky not to increase their lead, missing various chances to score
A 2nd half a own goal from Shepton followed by a goal from Ryan Pledger following on from where he left off from his 4 goals last week, Shepton had a few good moves and scored a consolation goal following a defensive error.
Good performances from Martyn Shepherd, Barry Maynard and Julian Coppell and overall a good team performance giving Wells a deserved victory.
MAN OF THE MATCH for his all round performance Rob Turner Saturday 12th September 2009Wells City A 6 - 1 Glastonbury ReservesPlaying on the lush surface at Rowdens Road and in front of a larger than average two men and a dog, Wells entertained local rivals Glastonbury and ran out well deserved 6 -1 winners.An even first 10 minutes saw both sides finding each other out before Wells settled in to a good passing rhythm. A quick re-shuffle was needed after Laing pulled a fetlock and after spurning 2 or 3 chances Wells were caught by the usual sucker punch by not clearing a corner and the ball ended up at the feet of a Glastonbury forward whose deflected shot found its way past Phipps in the home goal.Wells responded by exerting more forward pressure and were rewarded when a clever Coppell flick was latched onto by Pledger who side footed past the Glastonbury custodian.A similar move 5 minutes later saw Pledger grab his second to give Wells a 2-1 half time lead.The Second half started as the first had finished and Wells ran rampant in the initial 20 minutes by slotting in 4 unanswered goals.First centre half Marsh got his head to a well delivered Hall free kick and Pledger completed his hat-trick after linking well with the youthful Coppell again.Turner and Shepherd found acres in the middle of the park and a good move involving them led to Careslade crossing for Pledger to rise above the static defence to nod in his fourth.With Glastonbury camped in their final third, and with heads down it was no surprise that a sixth was added when Hall jinked his way into the box only to be manhandled for the referee to award a penalty. The returning Palmer stepped up to give the keeper no chance.The final quarter of the game was a non event goal wise as the weather and larger than life pitch sapped many an ageing bone. Glastonbury brought on their subs and ended up playing 4 up front but Wells held firm to maintain their 100% start o the season.Pledger deservedly ran off with the M-O-M award Saturday 5th September 2009Wells City A 3 - 2 Tunley ReservesWells started the new season in the Mid Somerset Division 1, with a home game against newly promoted Tunley Reserves. They fielded a number of ex-Western League players in Arron Wickham, Julian Coppell and Robbie Davis in goal, with Rob Turner making his debut in senior football.The Blues were in control for most of the match, and despite conceding a early goal, Arron Wickham soon equalised and then Zac Hall put the hosts ahead.Julian Coppell came off the bench in the second half and within minutes scored to make it 3-1, but a momentary lapse then ensued and Tunley grabbed a consolation goal.
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| All text and images on this site are copyright www.wellscityfc.org.uk,except those which have been obtained from elsewhere, which have been suitably accredited.If you want to use anything from this site, please ask first by e-mailing us. |
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| Designed, created and edited by Mark Phipps (copyright 2009)Last updated04/09/10 09:53 |
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