Bath City and Weston-super-Mare settled for a scoreless draw in a tightly contested Somerset Derby at the Cannon Clarke Stadium, with defenses firmly in control throughout the match.
Neither team managed a shot on target, underscoring the cautious approach both sides adopted. Bath’s goalkeeper Charlie Binns earned his first league clean sheet, reflecting City’s significantly improved defensive performance compared to previous outings.
Weston-super-Mare’s George Robesten was controversially sent off late in the game after striking Bath’s Joe Raynes during a rare moment of heightened tension. The dismissal came just 12 minutes after Robesten entered the pitch, adding to an already physical encounter.
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Bath City’s lineup saw adjustments due to Donovan Wilson’s hamstring tightness, with Luke Russe recalled, and late arrival of Alex Fisher due to a family matter. Due to limited attacking options, full-back Joe Raynes was deployed upfront alongside Owen Windsor.
The visitors dominated possession in the first half but failed to test Binns meaningfully. Weston’s Leo Pecover fired an ambitious shot over the bar early, while Bath’s Russe volleyed wide following a partial clearance from Dan Greenslade’s long throw. Defensively, Jaiden Putman made crucial blocks to keep the Romans secure.
In the second half, with the wind at their backs, City increased possession as Weston’s influence faded. Striker Louis Britton found himself isolated as Bath shuffled their forward lineup with Fisher replacing Matt Bowman, allowing Raynes to return to his defensive role.
A potential penalty for Bath was denied after referee Steven Swan reviewed an incident involving Windsor and Dan Ellison near the corner flag, instead awarding a corner to Weston.
The game’s only major incident unfolded in the 80th minute when frustration boiled over, leading to Robesten’s red card. Weston’s manager Scott Rogers also received a booking during the ensuing skirmish, while Binns was cautioned for time-wasting.
In the closing stages, Weston pushed for a winner but were thwarted by steadfast defending and an uncompromising City side. Substitute Jordan Alves’ penalty appeal was dismissed, and Britton’s tame header was the closest the visitors came to scoring in the latter stages.
Bath City manager Darren Way expressed mild disappointment but praised the team’s defensive resilience. “We created chances but lacked cutting edge,” he said. “Jaiden Putman was exceptional defensively, and our concentration across 90 minutes plus was crucial.”
Way highlighted the importance of maintaining a clean sheet, especially given the team’s historical struggles coming from behind. “Weston couldn’t break us down – we stayed disciplined and strong throughout.”
He also credited former player and assistant manager Jim Rollo for his inspirational pre-match speech, which he felt motivated the squad. “Jim reminded the players what derby days mean. His presence really lifted the team’s spirit.”
Ultimately, the goalless draw marked the first stalemate between these rivals at Twerton Park in National League South, reflecting a cautious contest where defense reigned supreme.