U18 MATCH REPORT: BRISLINGTON 0-3 BATH CITY

After the drama of their penalty shootout win in the Preliminary Round, a packed Poplar Stadium was eager to see how the young Foxes would fare against what promised to be a step up in class with academy side Bath City the visitors.

From the off, Bath looked that little bit sharper, their season already in full swing, but Brislington worked tirelessly to frustrate the Romans and looked lively on the counter through the pace of Wearne.

The deadlock was broken on 16 minutes in frustrating fashion for the hosts. Keeper Matty Cooper will feel he should have done better with what looked a routine effort from a very tight angle, but it crept over the line to give Bath the lead. Buoyed by the goal, the visitors began to dominate possession, and although Ronnie Moore’s running offered an outlet, Brislington were increasingly forced to defend deep.

On 36 minutes, Bath doubled their advantage. A half-volley from the edge of the box looked manageable, but Cooper was caught between two minds and the ball found its way into the net, leaving Bris with a mountain to climb. The young Foxes’ body language betrayed their frustration, but manager Scott Harding’s halftime message was clear: the next goal would be crucial.

Brislington responded with spirit after the restart, working hard at both ends and staying in the contest despite clear-cut chances being scarce. But on 64 minutes, Bath effectively sealed the tie with a fine individual goal – neat footwork followed by a delicate chip over the keeper for 3–0.

To their credit, Brislington never gave up and kept battling to the end, but with this defeat the young Foxes’ FA Youth Cup run came to an end against strong academy opposition.