Watford's Bachmann claims Downes apologised for winning goal

The West Ham loanee netted only his second goal for the club in the 99th minute of Saturday's 3-2 win. 

The Hornets dugout were incensed as only a minimum of seven minutes of added time had been signalled by the fourth official.

Downes also appeared to handle the ball as he controlled and turned in a corner delivery from substitute Ryan Manning. 

The result meant Saints moved within eight points of Championship leaders Ipswich Town but left the visitors distraught.

Speaking after the match, Bachmann said: "We’re a little bit heartbroken and I'm baffled honestly.

Daniel Bachmann spoke to club media after the match (Image: PA)

"Football obviously relies on mistakes or there are no goals but that's a tough one to take.

"Flynn Downes came up to me after, apologised and just said ‘You know, you would do the same in our situation or any situation’.

"It's just a tough one. The time as well, it was two minutes over the added time and there were no stoppages or anything so it’s baffling.

"There is a handball and I am lost for words because it is so clear and obvious," he continued.

"And the red card on Ryan Porteous - it’s close to assault, to be honest, he’s (Sekou Mara) done the Haymaker on him.

"We can be proud of ourselves for coming from two goals down and a terrible start. It is a fantastic reaction and we’ve limited their chances.

"We can be a lot better as well. We have shown character, but we know quality-wise that we can be better."

On his interaction with Downes, Bachmann added: "I went up to him and said, ‘Come on mate, what are you doing?’

Flynn Downes and Saints celebrate a crucial win (Image: Stuart Martin)

"He went, ‘Sorry mate, you would do the same’. He has got a point with what he is saying. They are trying to win a football game.

"They are in a promotion race. They will do everything they can to win, and this weekend they have gotten away with that.

"They are a good team and there is no denying that. They keep the ball well and they seem like a great group of lads.

"I have nothing against them whatsoever. It is just a tough one to take for us."