DROITWICH Spa cemented second place in the league standings after edging out Wellington Amateurs in a seven-goal thriller, with all goals coming in an explosive first half.
Hadyn Morris put the Saltmen ahead but the Shropshire hosts did not take long to level the scores.
James Lemon restored Spa’s lead but once again Wellington hit back to make it 2-2.
Andy Crowther then fired Spa back in front only for a battling Wellington to restore parity for a third time.
Lemon netted his second and his side’s fourth before the break to complete the scoring on an eventful afternoon at the Wickes Stadium.
Victory for Spa leaves them one point behind West Midlands One leaders Team Dudley who have played a game more at this stage of the season.
Joint-boss Wayne Oliver said: “Wellington caught us out with their front three.
“We learned after the game it was the same side which beat Racing Club Warwick in the FA Vase so we were quite happy to have come away with the three points.
“A couple of decisions maybe could have prevented a couple of goals but having said that, we’ve scored four away from home and claimed the win.
“The lads dug in well which was really pleasing.”
With Team Dudley in cup action this weekend, Spa can move two points clear at the top of the table if they claim victory over Gornal Athletic on Saturday.
A draw would also be enough to send Spa top due to their superior goal difference.
But Oliver knows Gornal are going to be difficult to beat, with the Black Country side having inflicted defeats on high-flying Team Dudley and Worcester Raiders respectively this season.
“We beat them 2-0 earlier in the year but they’ve had some good results since then so it’s going to be another tough test.”
Oliver will be without defender Matthew Hunt who broke his ankle in the 4-3 victory over Wellington and is not expected to be back in action until after Christmas.
The Spa boss confirmed he had submitted a seven-day approach to find a replacement.
