Following a disastrous F.A. Cup exit on Saturday, Welling United start their Kent Reliance Senior Cup campaign with a second round tie against Charlton Athletic.
Both teams had a bye through the first round and meet in a repeat of last season’s semi final.
Visitors Charlton Athletic also come into the game on the back of a disappointing result when they lost 1-0 at Gillingham, despite having 23 shots on goal of which 12 were on target.
If the Addicks came away wondering how they didn’t win, that was not the case for Welling who crashed out of the F.A. Cup at the first time of asking to Bostick League North Division club Haringey Borough.
Although they could claim that they had little protection from a poor refereeing performance, that was no excuse for a weak performance against a team that appeared to want it much more.
When Welling and Charlton met in this competition in March with a final appearance against Dover Athletic at stake, the teams drew 1-1 before the hosts won their second penalty shoot out of the season.
Chris Millar put the Addicks ahead a minute before half time but Alex Cathline’s deflected shot, his first goal for the club, brought the teams level. Penalties followed
Goalkeeper Chris Lewington saved Charlton’s first two penalties, the third went wide and the fourth flew over as the Addicks failed to convert any. Sam Hatton and Dan Walker tucked theirs away for Welling and the Wings were through.
Jason Euell will be in charge of a Charlton Under 23 side who should be keen to impress. Karlan Ahearne-Grant was in the Addicks team last season and played against Gillingham on Saturday so they will no that there is an opportunity.
Jamie Coyle, Welling’s manager, will ring the changes as he will be looking to give those who have been on the bench recently, a chance to stake their claim. Olumide Durojaiye, Sean Francis, Ian Gayle and Jack Jebb are all expected to start and Coyle said that anyone who performs well will be in line to start at Havant and Waterlooville on Saturday.
Picture supplied by Dave Budden.