Ten man City end troubled season with 25th defeat

By Rhod Mitchell, This is Cornwall. Images by Steve Rogers.

Tonbridge Angels 3 Truro City 2

City's two season spell in the Blue Square Bet South came to a disappointing end in Kent with an unfortunate defeat – their 25th of a very difficult season.

Chairman's Player of the Year, Les Afful playes 42 games this season.

 Already relegated from Step 2, at just what level the club will be playing next season is still unclear, and just how many of the current squad and management will remain is uncertain.

Ben Williams in action

But again they did the club proud after arriving just 15 minutes before the scheduled kick-off because of traffic hold ups on the long trip from Cornwall.

And after rushing to get ready, the visitors were caught "still on the bus" when Aaron Gayle gave the home side the lead after two minutes, though Paul Hider might have done better with the shot.

Barry and Lee lead the way

However, City were soon on level terms when the excellent Barry Hayles levelled with a fine shot, but poor defending allowed the prolific Frannie Collin to give the home side a 3-1 interval lead.

Watkins and Jordan Copp leave the pitch

After the break, Hayles quickly pulled a goal back and City looked on course to take something from the game until midfielder Joe Broad saw red with 20 minutes to go.

City still had chances to level in a frantic finale but it was not to be, leaving manager Lee Hodges frustrated, not for the first time this season.

He said: "We should have taken something from the game. I thought the officiating was terrible.

Jake Ash throws the captains arm band to the fans

"Joe's tackle was not even a booking and we could have had a couple of penalties.

"But I would like to thank all the players for what they have done for me this season."

Fans applaud the players after the game

 
City: Hider; Washburn, Ash (capt), Williams, Watts, Cooke, Broad, Copp, Afful, Hayles, Wright. Subs: Watkins, Davey.