Charlie Binns was harshly sent off as Bath City suffered another tough defeat, this time at Maidstone United. Becoming the third different goalkeeper to be dismissed this season, Binns was penalised for a contentious challenge on Deon Moore, resulting in a straight red card and a penalty, which Antony Papadopoulos converted confidently.
Despite an otherwise competitive first half from Bath City, the game turned decisively after 55 minutes. A misplaced pass by Dan Greenslade left Maidstone’s Papadopoulos free on the right wing. His cross was fumbled by Binns, and Moore’s fall in the box prompted referee Ayrton Hursey to award a penalty and send Binns off. Harvey Wiles-Richards came on as a replacement goalkeeper, but Bath City were down to ten men.
Papadopoulos tamed his penalty finish placing it beyond Wiles-Richards and put Maidstone ahead. The hosts then dominated, hitting the post multiple times and creating several close chances, although Bath City’s defence held temporarily.
READ MORE: Bath Christmas Bin Collection Dates Announced
READ MORE: Jailed Councillor May Retain Seat Pending Appeal
In the final moments, Maidstone’s Riley Court capitalised on a swift counterattack to score his first league goal, sealing a 2-0 victory for the Stones. Bath City have now conceded seven penalties, lost four players to red cards, and allowed five goals after the 90th minute this season.
Bath City’s Denise Way’s side remains three points clear of the relegation zone but will be frustrated by the crucial sending-off and missed opportunity to extend their advantage in the league standings. Meanwhile, Maidstone United edged closer to the play-off places with the vital win on home turf.