Wolves 1

Ireland Rangers 0

Lamelle Paynter’s late header proved to be the difference in this First Division encounter at Devonshire Recreation Club last night.

Just when it seemed as though the game was destined for a draw, Paynter rose in the area in the 75th minute to head home Lionel Evans’ cross to earn the hosts maximum points.

Ireland Rangers nearly grabbed a late equalizer when they struck the woodwork during a goalmouth scramble, but that was the closest the visitors came to salvaging something from the match as Wolves held firm.

Taking some of the gloss off Wolves’ victory was the loss of midfielder Shacoi Daniels, who was taken to hospital via ambulance after suffering a blow to the jaw.

Defeat leaves Ireland Rangers near the foot of the table, having played two games more than Paget, the team immediately below them, and a game more than X-Roads who are bottom. Rangers have four points, the bottom two have just one.

Wolves meanwhile put some distance between themselves and the bottom three, but are still eight points behind the leaders.

• There are two First Division games tomorrow at Somerset Cricket Club.

In the 7pm kick-off, Somerset Eagles, fresh off the back of their six-goal hammering of Young Men’s Social Club take on BAA, while at 9pm Paget face Flanagan’s Onions.