Alex Fisher scored a crucial equaliser against his former club as Bath City fought back to earn a 2-2 draw in their pre-season clash with League Two side Newport County.
The match saw Newport take the lead twice, through goals from Ged Garner and Harrison Halpin, before Bath City mounted a resilient comeback. Dan Greenslade’s direct corner kick found its way into the net, leveling the score just after halftime. Then, Fisher sealed the comeback with a composed finish, assisted by academy graduate Seweryn Streczen, despite some debate over an offside call.
Newport began strongly, enjoying early possession and testing Bath’s goalkeeper Harvey Wiles-Richards, who made several key saves, including denying former Bath loanee Moses Alexander-Walker. Bath’s defensive resolve was evident, with center-back Dan Sassi making vital blocks to keep Newport at bay.
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Newport’s first goal came just before the break when Ged Garner struck a deflected long-range shot that caught Wiles-Richards off guard. Bath threatened soon after halftime, and Greenslade’s unexpected goal equalised. Newport regained the lead moments later, courtesy of a well-placed header by the 16-year-old Halpin.
Despite Newport’s attempt to secure the win, including a thwarted breakaway by Alexander-Walker, Bath City’s substitutions proved pivotal. Scott Bartlett introduced Streczen and Fisher, whose connection resulted in the second equaliser. Streczen’s clever run and cross created the moment for Fisher to fire home the leveller, despite Newport’s protests.
The closing stages saw further chances for both teams, with Bath’s defense, led by Cameron Norman, holding firm. Manager Scott Bartlett praised his squad’s discipline and effort, highlighting the importance of such challenging preseason matches to prepare for the campaign ahead.
Bartlett also noted the versatility of players like Ollie Chamberlain and Joe Raynes, which provides valuable options as the squad deals with injuries and tactical adjustments. Fisher’s return to the team has been a morale boost, underlining his fitness and professionalism despite previous retirement considerations.
With Bath City’s squad building momentum and competitive spirit, Bartlett insists every player must push for a starting spot as they head into the season, aiming to make selections a tough decision for the coaching staff.
Final Score: Bath City 2 (Greenslade 49, Fisher 79) Newport County 2 (Garner 41, Halpin 53)