GEORGE Bills’ second half winner gave battling Launceston a superb 1-0 success at Wendron United on Saturday.

The Clarets, now under the sole management of Simon Minett, had enjoyed little success at Underlane, while the hosts were well-placed in the league’s top four and looked sure to provide a tough test for Minett’s young side, bolstered by the return of striker Alfie Fothergill.

Wendron, following convincing recent wins over Millbrook, St Day and Holsworthy, were straight onto the attack and Clarets keeper Howie Evans was soon called upon to deny the lively Dan Greet.

The Launceston defence, led by Jude Jago and Archie Wall, were working overtime in front of the excellent Evans.

The Clarets struggled to pose much of an attacking threat although Fothergill and Kian Berry kept the home defence busy.

Following a goalless first half, Wendron stepped up the pressure.

Minett introduced his substitutes as the home side became increasingly desperate and collected a needless sin-bin offence.

With the hosts short-handed, the Clarets pounced and took a 74th minute lead, following a rare attack as Bills got the crucial touch as the ball rolled past helpless keeper Zac Telling and crept over the line.

Evans gave a superb display in goal for Launceston. His final contribution was to touch over a flying header from his opposite number as Wendron threw caution to the wind and sent everyone up to contest a corner.

The Clarets held on to record a morale-boosting victory over a good side, sparking scenes of great jubilation and earning the SWPL Team of the Week award.

LAUNCESTON: Howie Evans; Tom Manuel, Ryan Dawe, Joe Moynan, Jude Jago, Archie Wall, Sam Tattersall, Mike Steele (capt), Alfie Fothergill, Will Gilbert, Kian Berry. Substitutes: Gabe Rutter, George Bills, Denham Guild