Gloucester City manager Daf Williams expressed his disappointment following a 2-1 home defeat to promotion contenders Farnham Town on Tuesday night, a result that widened the gap at the league summit.
Despite a sluggish start from Farnham, it was substitute Owen Dean who broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute. Dean seized a one-on-one opportunity with City goalkeeper Jared Thompson to score against the run of play, giving Farnham the lead.
Only three minutes later, the visitors doubled their advantage. Brandon Mason delivered a curling free-kick to the far post, intended as a dangerous cross, but it unexpectedly curled into the top corner, leaving City stunned.
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Gloucester City pulled one back just before halftime, capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble after a long throw-in was recycled into the box. Sion Spence was there to tap the ball home and reignite hope for the home crowd.
In the second half, Tigers fans were eager for a fightback, but Farnham’s resolute defense thwarted all efforts. The visitors held strong to secure a vital victory in their promotion quest.
Williams reflected on the match: “Any loss is disappointing, but this one particularly stings. When you take the goals out of the equation, I believe we controlled the game. We had enough chances in the box, but weren’t ruthless enough in finishing.”
He praised Farnham’s defensive performance, especially their center-halves: “Their two center-backs were outstanding. We knew the significance of this game, and Farnham are likely to be contenders at the season’s end. So, it’s tough to lose this one.”
Williams was critical of the manner in which the goals were conceded: “The first goal was a poor one to concede and the second, frankly, is one of the worst free-kicks I’ve seen given away. These are moments that, when playing away and trying to get a point, you simply can’t afford.”
He added, “I’m not blaming individuals. This is a game we must learn from and improve as a result.”
Following their first home loss of the season, Gloucester City now sit five points behind leaders Walton & Hersham. Williams stressed the need to rebound quickly: “The season isn’t defined by one game or one month. We have a chance to respond on Saturday, and we must take it.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming fixture, Williams warned, “Wimborne away will be tough. Based on their strong record, it will be a challenging match. They are a tough side that don’t concede easily.”
Gloucester City lineup: Thompson, Leadbitter, Jones, O’Regan, Williams, Spence (Day 84), Watts (Hanks 76), Pinchard, Emmett (Richards-Everton 84), Baidoo, Simpson.
Farnham Town lineup: Eacott, J. Dean, Kinnane, Bayliss, Mason, Mackenzie, Leggett (Uche 85), Jackson, Taylor (O. Dean 14), Obi (Evans 80), Liddle.
Referee: Michael Pattison
Attendance: 787