| Matt Bath - Goalkeeper |
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| If ever proof were needed that there is talent to be found in local football then Matt Bath is it. |
| Having used a number of goalkeepers already in the 2001/02 season, Chris Burns looked to County League side Whitminster. Matt had played there for six seasons and seemed quite happy to stay put. However the chance to prove himself at higher level finally saw him part company with the local side. |
| He made his debut against Mangotsfield Utd at Meadow Park but it almost didn't happen as he was refused entry at the gate! City lost the game 2-1 but Matt's continuing impressive performances made the number one jersey his own for the remainder of the season. |
| Not only did his ability shine through more and more with each game, so did his reputation. In his early games he seemed to stand and watch if a ball was out of his reach, but his confidence grew and before long he'd become one of the better keepers in the league. It was no surprise when he was named as the 2001/02 player of the season despite only playing for five full months. |
| Matt missed the first three games of the 2002/03 season after he was red carded at Atherstone. After he'd served his suspension he seemed to take a while to find his best form. He conceded more than twenty goals in his fist dozen games but found his form in the away win at Sutton Coldfield. Whilst the home keeper reacted to anything the Taff said to him, Matt quietly pulled off several breathtaking saves and announced his return to top form. |
| He finished the season with sixteen clean sheets and an enhanced reputation as someone who was now playing below his level. What with the performances that he put in during our FA Trophy run, including a Gordon Banks like save at Southport, the club realised his importance and offered him a contract, he has yet to sign it... |
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Previous Clubs:
Whitminster |
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Appearances & Goals: (upto & including 29/04/06)
| Season |
Apps |
Subs |
Goals |
| 2001/02 |
24 |
- |
- |
| 2002/03 |
56 |
- |
- |
| 2003/04 |
51 |
- |
- |
| 2004/05 |
45 |
- |
- |
| 2005/06 |
46 |
- |
1 |
| 2006/07 |
- |
- |
- |
| Total |
222 |
- |
1 |
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| Image Gallery: (click to view full size pics) |
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