Even though Penllergaer are 2 Division lower than Wellfield, this was the second time these two sides have faced each other this season. The first time was in the first round of the West Wales Cup, when Wellfield came back from 2-0 down to win the match 3-2. This time these two sides faced to decide who goes through to the Quarter Final of the Challenge Cup.
It was an even opening to the match with Wellfield having the first good chance when Leigh Williams' shot was well saved by the keeper. Another good chance fell the home sides way after 15 minutes, but Johnny Thomas' free-kick was well held by the keeper. It was Penllergaer who took the lead though when Chris Whitten's stretching header from a long free-kick unluckily found the top corner of his own goal. When the Penllergaer keeper brought down Johnny in the box, the referee had no option but award the penalty, giving Wellfield a great chance to get level. It was Johnny who tucked the penalty into the bottom corner. Just before half-time, the referee made a dubious decision by awarding Wellfield a free-kick for a foul on Steve Harries. Wellfield felt hard done by because the ref should have played an advantage for Steve, who immedietly crossed the ball for Ryan Williams to score.
Half-Time: Wellfield Athletic 1-1 Penllergaer
The second half was a completely different story. Wellfield began to play some much better football, but also kept their shape very well and soaked up any pressure that was put on them. Steve Harries gave Wellfield the lead around the hour mark when he put away a trademark 'low and low' Ryan Williams cross. Steff Whitten came close with a great volley that was well saved by the opposing keeper. But it was Stephen Greene who disappointed many after a fantastic move from the back that was unpreventable by the opposition left him through on goal, but he smashed his shot over. After a handball incident in the box, Wellfield were awarded another penalty and once again, Johnny supplied the finish. Johnny came close again when he struck a free-kick over the bar. Penllergaer were constantly causing the Wellfield back four problems but they didn't really do anything to test the keeper. Johnny completed his hat-trick just minutes from time when he headed home a cross from Stephen Greene.
Full-Time: Wellfield Athletic 4-1 Penllergaer
Wellfield's quality did show at times throughout this match but once again, it took conceding a goal to actually start things. Wellfield's opponents in the Quarters are another Division 3 side in the form of Drefach. |