Welling United’s FA Trophy campaign ended in disappointment as they suffered a 2-1 defeat to Southern League Premier Division South side Havant & Waterlooville at Park View Road.
The visitors’ victory was sealed by AFC Wimbledon loanee Harry Sidwell, whose strike midway through the second half proved decisive.
First-Half Struggles
Welling manager Rod Stringer made five changes to his side as injuries and suspensions forced a reshuffle. Captain Dave Winfield was absent due to suspension, while Dan Martin and Zain Walker missed out through injury. Garrett Kelly captained the team in only his second start for the Wings.
The hosts started comfortably but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Their first shot on target came from Gene Kennedy, but his effort was easily saved by Havant goalkeeper Ben Dudzinski. Against the run of play, Havant took the lead in the 27th minute. A long cross-field pass found Keane Anderson, whose shot was parried by Daniel Jinadu, only for Callum Kealy to score from the rebound.
The goal sapped Welling’s confidence, and Havant continued to threaten. Jinadu made a brilliant double save before halftime to keep Welling in the game, denying Brendan Willson’s header and Kealy’s follow-up.
Second-Half Drama
Welling made a substitution at halftime as Kennedy was forced off, with Josh Redfearn making just his second appearance. Kelly went close for the hosts, but his clean strike was well held by Dudzinski.
Havant extended their lead in the second half when Sidwell’s seemingly harmless strike slipped past Jinadu and into the net. Despite the setback, Welling fought back, with Kelly and Chukwu both going close. Alex Lankshear gave the Wings hope with a header seven minutes from time, but the hosts could not find an equaliser. Dudzinski’s heroic save from Chukwu’s late shot ensured Havant’s progress.
Injury Concerns for Welling
Welling will now turn their attention to an important league match against Weymouth on Tuesday. Manager Rod Stringer will be hoping for the return of goalkeeper Rhys Lovett and monitoring injuries to Kennedy and Walker. With their FA Trophy hopes dashed, the Wings will aim to regroup and refocus on their league campaign.
Writer’s View
Welling United’s FA Trophy exit highlights the challenges of navigating injuries and squad changes. Rod Stringer’s side showed resilience in the second half, but defensive lapses and missed opportunities proved costly. Havant’s clinical finishing, combined with an inspired performance from goalkeeper Ben Dudzinski, sealed the Wings’ fate. Welling must now concentrate on building consistency in the league to make the most of their season.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
