WELLAND moved up to second in Cheltenham Association League Division Three after leapfrogging Gala Wilton thirds with a 3-0 win.

The villagers bounced back from the previous week’s Worcestershire FA Minor Cup semi-final exit.

In the early stages, Gala put the hosts under pressure with a several good chances and numerous corners.

Goalkeeper Lloyd Winstanley-Cox saved to his left and at the feet of a striker before Welland went ahead against the run of play.

John Gullick’s throw to Jon Williams saw the midfielder swivel and unleash an unstoppable 20-yard drive.

The goal settled Welland and their lead was nearly doubled when Stacey Brimmell chipped the ‘keeper only to see the ball go agonisingly over.

Welland gained control in the second period as Tom Soley and Jamie Harding went close.

Winstanley-Cox saved smartly at the other end before Olly Lewis’s cross was headed in by Harding.

Brimmell was then played in by Harding and slotted the ball home to complete a comfortable victory.

Welland host Shurdington Rovers Reserves tomorrow in the Junior Charity Cup quarter-finals (2pm).

Meanwhile, Upton Town’s winning form in Division One ended with a 2-1 defeat in a thriller at Gala Wilton Reserves.

The hosts’ young talented team applied early pressure and hit the bar on 15 minutes before taking the lead on the half-hour mark with a spectacular 25-yarder.

The goal sparked Upton into life and Tom Morris equalised within two minutes from eight yards after the ‘keeper fumbled a corner.

Town gained confidence and Ryan Upfield came within inches of scoring before Ian Merrick was denied by a fine save on half-time.

But Gala Wilton got a second goal on the break in the second period after the visitors failed to clear the danger.

Morris had a penalty shout waved away and Matt Hindmarsh made an impact in his return after six weeks out.

Merrick missed a good chance and a deflected effort clipped the post before Craig Kitchener lobbed just over.

Tom Crump saw his cross-shot tipped wide by the impressive ‘keeper with virtually the last kick of the game.

Upton visit high-flying Whaddon United in the Senior Charity Cup tomorrow (ko 2pm).