Captain David Mulford cut a frustrated figure as he had tried to keep a lid on tempers while his side got back into the contest through a Kyle Graham-Luke strike.
But just as the home side looked a little jittery after City had outplayed their midfield for most of the encounter, the visitors were left a man short after Jack Judd-Nuttall received a second caution.
Pressure off, the home side were able to see out the result more comfortably and edge to the top of the standings beside a Taradale side who defeated North End 2-1.
Besides the obvious disappointment in their result, Hayward was positive the side is moving forward in their play and the team showed a marked improvement, having the better of play barring the outcome.
"Shaan Stuart once again continues to improve and shows great passion.
"But for a bit more luck, things could have been totally different and in our favour.
"I was frustrated with the inconsistencies in some of the decision-making, but we will continue to improve and the feeling at training last week reflected the spirit within the team to continue to strive for the right results."
Hayward was also hopeful the coming week would see a few influential players back in the selection frame as he ponders his injury and now suspension list.
Western Premiership: Wanganui City Reserves 2, Wanganui Athletic 1sts 0
The City Reserves' closely contested 2-0 win helped raise spirits within the club after hearing their Federation result, defeating Athletic 1st in the main Western Premiership derby at Wembley Park.
Two goals from youngster Jamie Lambe was enough to see City hit the top of the table after week two. Lambe, who has been training with the Federation Talent Centres run through Central Football all summer, is showing the benefits of that continuation to his football.
For Athletic coach Mickey Cronin, not so much emphasis revolves around results this season as he will be keen for his very young side just to gain experience, as many are competing for the first time at this level. For some it is a first even at the senior league.
Manawatu Women's: Wanganui Athletic 18, PN Marist Harlequins 0
Similarly to the City Reserves, Athletic Women are keeping the feeling upbeat within their club with yet another more than comprehensive victory in their first home match on Sunday.
An 18-0 thumping of PN Marist Harlequins was pleasing to coach Dave Downes, but more so the way the game was controlled by the home side with plenty of passing and the ability to execute the game plan.
Other results:
Men: Athletic Cosmos drew with Castlecliff Gold 3-3; Castlecliff United lost to City Development 2-1; Athletic Weekenders beat City Thirstys 4-1; Castlecliff Braves beat Athletic Cosmos Classics 5-2; Collegiate lost to City Hammers 7-1.
Women: Barritt Builders Marist Women beat Castlecliff Strappers 1-0; City Women beat Castlecliff Scrappers 9-2.
