Braintree 2 Welling 1

Welling's relegation battle took a turn for the worse after a narrow defeat at play-off hopefuls Braintree on Saturday.

The Wings deserved more for their efforts and were beaten by a first half penalty and a controversial second half free kick.

The Wings almost fell behind inside the first minute but Robbie Ryan produced a brilliant goalline clearance.

However, Braintree did go ahead six minutes before half-time when Max Hustwick tripped Brad Quinton and the Braintree skipper converted the spot-kick.

Welling were deservedly on level terms two minutes into the second half when Sonny Cobbs exchanged passes with Sam Gargan before firing low into the corner.

Gargan then headed wide from Ellis Green's free kick and the influential Cobbs saw his 20-yard blockbuster tipped over the bar.

The game was decided by a generous free kick for the hosts given by referee David Rook and Quinton curled home past the wall.