Bath City endured a painful late defeat at Twerton Park, losing 1–0 to fellow relegation strugglers Farnborough after an 89th-minute goal dashed their hopes. Despite showing improvement from their heavy loss in Essex last weekend, the Romans were undone by Jordan Tillson’s second yellow card and a decisive strike shortly after, extending their winless run to eight matches.
Farnborough started the brighter, with Alfie Tuck testing the Bath defence inside five minutes. However, Bath responded with sustained pressure through coordinated moves involving Scott Wilson, Ruebin Sheppard, and Matt Bowman. Their efforts earned multiple corners before Bowman’s powerful header was superbly saved by Farnborough debutant goalkeeper Joe Duncan, who tipped the ball onto the crossbar.
Owen Windsor came close with a long throw and a shot that sailed over the bar, provoking danger for the home side. Later, a promising three-versus-two play ended with Sheppard firing narrowly wide. The half ended scoreless, despite a brief moment of confusion over an apparent red card for Tuck, which was clarified as only a yellow.
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Bath started the second half strongly, creating promising chances. Tillson nearly scored when his thunderous strike hit the woodwork, keeping Farnborough’s goalkeeper alert throughout. Farnborough also threatened, with Wesley Fonguck making several dangerous runs and a dangerous free-kick causing panic in the Bath penalty area.
The 72nd minute saw a worrying injury to Joe Raynes, who left the field after treatment. Undeterred, Bath pushed forward, with Luke Russe’s powerful shot saved and subsequent efforts kept Farnborough’s defence on edge. However, the decisive turning point came in the 87th minute when Tillson was shown a second yellow for a late challenge, reducing Bath to ten men.
From the resulting free-kick, Michael Klass headed the ball across goal, allowing Micah Anthony to score a low, precise finish in the 89th minute. Farnborough held on through six minutes of stoppage time, denying Bath a late equalizer.
This defeat marks a tough blow for Bath, who produced an improved performance but were ultimately punished for a crucial late mistake. The loss leaves them deep in the relegation zone as the season nears its end, increasing pressure on the team to perform in the remaining fixtures.
Manager Darren Way expressed his disappointment, highlighting the many missed chances but praised his players’ fighting spirit. He emphasized the importance of staying mentally strong amid the emotional challenge of battling relegation, promising positive preparation ahead of Saturday’s home game.