WELLAND'S assistant manager, Cliff Gardiner, made a surprise debut with 20 minutes to go, when Manion and Genever were both injured, and with five minutes remaining his first-time shot won the game for Welland.

WELLAND ATHLETIC 2, MARTLEY SPURS 1

His celebratory sprint reflected both the passion and commitment of this young Welland team, newly promoted to the Premier Division.

Tom Crump had almost put Welland ahead within 20 seconds as his shot flew over the bar but on their first venture into Welland's half on six minutes, Collins put Spurs ahead as a corner went undefended giving Whittal-Williams no chance from the header.

Welland continued to push forward and looked stronger in all departments. Derrington nearly equalised with a curling shot that went inches over. Lee Manion equalised after good midfield work and an inter-change with Crump to level it at half time.

Welland felt they were denied a penalty after a foul in the box saw a Martley player red-carded but a goal kick was awarded. The confusion led to three more yellow cards and some strong tackling by ten-man Martley as they defended resolutely for the final 30 minutes.

The post and a brilliant save from Manion's header almost gave Martley their draw but Gardiner's strike brought Welland a deserved victory.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Welland, sponsored by the Kings Head, Upton, play All Blacks at the Hill Centre, kick-off 3pm.