CHICKERELL UTD 1 WINCANTON TOWN 1

MAURICE Welch felt his Chickens were unfortunate not to become the first team to inflict defeat on Wincanton in 2012/13.

Nick Etherington scored directly from a corner to put the hosts in front at Weymouth College.

But the visitors hit back towards the end of the first half via David O’Hare and 1-1 is how it stayed – despite United missing some excellent opportunities in the second period.

Regardless of the outcome, manager Welch was delighted with his side’s display.

He said: “We had quite a few lads missing so we knew it was going to be tough against a powerful side like Wincanton.

“They possess a long throw and they tend to score most of their goals from set-pieces, which we did our best to negate.

“We went 1-0 up after about 10 minutes when Nick stuck one in from a corner, and it stayed that way until the 40th minute.

“We had been very disciplined but we gave away a cheap free-kick and they scored it. It was the only chance they had and we went in 1-1 at half-time.

“We managed to stop them playing in the second half and we dealt with the ball in behind very well.

“Tom Peck and Steve Welch in defence were both outstanding and Steve Boore in goal handled everything that came his way.

“We created the better chances in the second half. Josh Why was superb all game but unfortunately for him he missed two one-on-ones. In his defence, the keeper made two great saves.

“We could have won the game but I can’t knock anyone as everyone was superb and gave everything they had.

“I believe we will play worse than that this season and still win. Hopefully though, we can kick on from here.”

And Welch will be eyeing a repeat performance tonight as the Chickens visit Bridport Reserves (7.30pm).

Chickens: Boore, Lambert, Peck, S Welch, Sibley, Etherington, Miles, Tarnawski, Connor, Beades, Why. Sub not used: Bill.