THE rapid dismissal of Zac Evans proved the flashpoint as Bashley succumbed to a 1-0 defeat at home to nine-man Mangotsfield United – their 11th Southern League loss in a row.

Evans was brought on in place of Ibrahima Diallo in the 76th minute but within 16 seconds his lunging challenge was punished by a red card from referee Will Bull.

The incident was one of the quickest sendings off in Southern League history, a record held by ex-Chippenham striker David Pratt, who was dismissed three seconds into a clash with Bashley in December 2008.

Tuesday’s encounter was played in difficult conditions and Welsh striker Lewis Powell put the visitors in front midway through the first-half when he converted from close range.

The action ebbed and flowed but Bash – without a league goal since October 11 – were unable to break their duck.

After the restart, Bash debutant Louis Le Mesurier was unfortunate to be given offside when he was put through by Mitchell Coombes, while Ashley Booker was denied by the visitors’ keeper, Joe Perry.

Evans was red-carded swiftly after entering the fray and it was not long before Steve Davies exited the action following his second yellow card.

However, despite a two-man advantage, the tired hosts could not force a leveller as Mangotsfield defended Perry’s goal in determined fashion.