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29/04/08

Rushden & Diamonds 2 - 1 Brackley Town

Att. 355

Line Up : Knight, Abassi, Murphy, Hadland, Brown, Green, Harper, Savage, Fisher, Anderson, Winters Subs : Oldfield, Semple, Wilshere, Carpenter

Pictures - John Wilshere

Report - Tim Carroll

Heading east on the A45 in torrential rain in rush hour traffic for this encounter with Blue Square Conference side Rushden and Diamonds, Saints fans were entitled to question their own judgement given the counter-attraction of Man Utd v Barcelona beamed live into living rooms and the cosy club-house bar back at St James Park. Following this sparkling match however not one would have wanted to miss this magnificent Tuesday evening performance in East Northamptonshire.

The splendid Nene Park stadium provided a fitting venue for a cup final and an occasion enjoyed by the travelling support who had cheered their team during the cold winter months to victories against Woodford, Raunds and Rothwell to reach this stage. In the pouring rain the curtain finally came down on another long season in this second ever Northants Hillier Senior Cup Final to be contested by Brackley Town.

Jean-Paul Sartre said that “if a victory is told in detail, one can no longer distinguish it from a defeat”. What was true on this night was a defeat that looked every bit a victory for a Brackley team that at times out-played opponents from two levels higher, matched them for commitment and endeavour, passing and vision, and by anybody’s reckoning deserved more than defeat to a last minute winning goal. The story of this fine match will be told again and again. While the record books will record a 1-2 defeat the spirit and promise of this Saints side will live long in the minds of everyone fortunate enough to see this contest.

Just some of the large following at Nene Park

Rushden and Diamonds fielded their full first team in a match that marked David Oldfield’s final game as manager and was watched from the stands by both his immediate predecessors, Phil Lines and Roger Ashby. Oldfield even put in a cameo appearance of four minutes as substitute at the end. The team boasted a fine forward line of Winters, Fisher and Anderson that promised much and did not fail to disappoint. Granted one wish the new, in-coming manager would surely sign up these strikers on life-time contracts. On the night however every player was a giant putting in a collective performance that, at a stroke, has raised the bar for next season.

As early as the first minute space opened up for Tom Winters whose shot was wide and Jerome Anderson was put through only to fail to beat the advancing ‘keeper in what was a golden chance to give the under-dogs the lead. On 7 minutes the Diamonds’ striker Michael Rankine, with 12 league goals to his name for the season, saw his shot fly just wide before the visitors created more chances through first Anderson, whose sharp crossed was cleared, then Winters’ wicked shot from 25 yards that just missed the top corner and great passing build-up play saw another Winters’ cross cleared. On 21 minutes the home side found space for Sam Smith who shot just wide and a minute later a long cross-field pass by Guy Hadland found Winters whose dangerous, first-time cross was cut out by the ‘keeper.

Tom Winters running caused problems for the Diamonds defence throughout the game

At the halfway point in this first period the game was goalless but full of chances and end-to-end entertainment for the enthusiastic crowd. On 24 minutes the PA sparked into life: the Reds had taken the lead at Old Trafford. The Reds of Winters and Anderson had been playing Ronaldo-esque, revelling in the big match atmosphere, and the news of the goal spurred them to even greater heights as Brackley dominated. On the half hour Anderson was through on goal but the ‘keeper charged out and just managed to divert the goalbound shot. A minute later Winters collected the ball and ran at the defence at pace before shooting powerfully and just wide. On 33 minutes left-back Phil Murphy played the ball forward for Anderson to chase. The on-loan striker won the race beyond the defenders but ‘keeper Margarson charged out to clear out of the ground into the streets of Irthlingborough. On the right Chris Harper was inspired all evening and on 38 minutes a fine run saw him dribble past three defenders only for his shot to be well saved.

Rushden and Diamonds enjoyed their share of possession but created little goal threat and the final five minutes before half-time belonged to solely to Brackley. A great move saw Anderson lay the ball back for Winters to strike a fierce shot that was beaten away by Margarson for the game’s first corner. This led to Harper’s effort being clawed away for a second corner before, minutes later, Richard Knight’s long kick was deflected for a third corner kick. This sailed through the penalty box taking a deflection for a fourth kick as referee Burt whistled for half-time. At Old Trafford it stood 1-0 and at Nene Park 4-0 to Brackley, in corners at least and in attacking intent. The half-time break was enjoyed to the full by the boisterous away supporters as the PA blasted out classics including the anthemic rhythms of Ritchie Blackmore and Rainbow.

For smart passing, goal attempts and near misses the second half was even better than the first as Brackley stepped up the search for silverware and a first Senior Cup win buoyed by the raucous away support now galvanised in the belief that victory was possible. Former Diamond Dave Savage and Guy Hadland anchored the midfield with Knight always confident and reliable in goal and the defence superb, Abassi impressing in particular with his attacking contributions down the right, Brackley looked every bit a match for the Diamonds.

After just 3 minutes from the re-start Winters found young Alex Fisher who fed Anderson who was almost through. Shortly after Lee Tomlin replaced Smith for the home side and the former Brackley loanee immediately impressed looking dangerous whenever he received the ball. Abassi did wonderfully well to play in a delicate cross on 55 minutes for Anderson to crash a header onto the crossbar. The ball came back and a further goalbound attempt was cleared for a corner. Tom Winters struck the corner that curled into the near post and was mis-judged by the goalkeeper to give the visitors the deserved lead and Winters the goal he had worked so hard for(below).

Within minutes Abassi again got forward and crossed accurately causing havoc in the penalty area as Anderson almost swooped before the ‘keeper cleared. Moments later the quick Rankine broke away and was brought down to win a penalty that Woodhouse slotted home with aplomb. While Brackley led 5-0 on corners the score-line read 1-1 and the game was beautifully set up for the final half-hour.

Almost from the kick-off Fisher went through but was thwarted by the ‘keeper again. Anderson pounced on the loose ball but his ambitious lob just missed. The game was now played box-to-box as both sides sought a second goal that might avert extra-time and then penalties. The home side made further substitutions replacing first Corcoran and then El-Kholti with Beecroft and then Lambley. With a quarter of an hour remaining Winters’ perfect pass played in Anderson who slotted home superbly (below) only to have the goal ruled out for surely the closest off-side decision of the season and one that should haunt the official during the coming months.

The home side threatened with several good chances, a deft shot cleared for a corner, a goalmouth scramble and then a great chance wasted by Tomlin whose shot missed by inches. Yet Brackley had more to give and a powerful effort by the outstanding Anderson was tipped over by Margarson who was enduring one of his busiest games of the campaign.

Winters anguish as a late effort is saved

On 80 minutes Winters’ corner again troubled the ‘keeper but this time he escaped and four minutes later minutes Winters’ run and shot was just wide. Fisher found time and space to cut the ball back for Harper whose shot was saved conceding another corner. Oldfield replaced the injured Abassi as extra-time beckoned and was nothing less than Brackley deserved. There was however a final twist as first Knight was called into action to save superbly but then, moments later, could do nothing as a swift break down the right was crossed in for Tomlin to finish smartly at point-blank range to give the home side the winning goal and the trophy. The three minutes of added time ran away and the final whistle blew with the crowd standing to applaud both teams for a stirring finale to the season. As the gallant losers collected their medals the away supporters cheered their team to the rafters and sang of The Pride of Northamptonshire. On a night like this one could not disagree.

200 miles away at Old Trafford United held on to book a place in the final of the world’s premier club competition but it was at Nene Park on this night of miserable weather where the pulse raced, passions flared and Brackley Town played their best football of the season to delight supporters and offer real hope that next season will surpass even the heights that have been reached in this first time round at Premier level. Saints supporters trooped away with cheers ringing in their ears to enjoy sunny days ahead with hope in their hearts.

Rushden & Diamonds website report

26/04/08

Clevedon Town 0 - 0 Brackley Town

Att 180

Line Up - Knight, Abassi, Green, Hadland, Brown, Kearns, Semple, Savage, Oldfield, Harper, Patterson Subs - Longford (for Kearns 45), Carpenter, Winters, Anderson, Wilshere

Manager David Oldfield in his last league match for Saints gets to grip with the opposition

Ryan Semple back from injury, proved a handfull for the home defence

Another good game for Jamie Paterson in midfield

Richard Knight keeping his 10th clean sheet of the season

Don't pack it away for the summer yet lads - we've got a Cup Final on Tuesday

Spring sunshine at last!

Clevedon Town Website reports and pictures

19/04/08

Brackley Town 1 -1 Rugby Town

Att 340

On the corresponding Saturday last season a shirt-sleeved crowd celebrated a victory and the championship bathed in glorious, warm sunshine. A year on and a large crowd, boosted by strong travelling support bearing an assortment of gigantic flags and banners, shivered in a biting wind and occasional squalls of rain as the Saints played out a drab1-1 draw with Rugby Town. As results turned out on this penultimate matchday of the season The Valley were already safe from relegation but the relief and celebration by the fans from Warwickshire on the final whistle was nonetheless raucous.

Last August the Saints won a very good game at Butlin Road but just four players from that Saints starting eleven took to the field in this re-match: ‘keeper Knight, defenders Green and Brown and Guy Hadland. Craig Richards lined up for his final match in a Brackley shirt at the end of his long loan spell from Salisbury, Jamie Paterson started on the left in place of the injured Winters and youngsters Longford and Carpenter found places on the bench alongside Kearns returning from injury. A curiosity for Rugby was goalkeeper Richard Anstiss sporting the captain’s armband.

The 340 spectators settled in their seats as the game kicked off and were still speculating that the combined age of the three match officials certainly totalled a darts’180 when Nuneaton referee McCaul took a first minute tumble, much to the crowd’s merriment and his bewilderment not to say discomfort.

Rugby were immediately into their stride showing the greater urgency and commitment. A 5 th minute shot by Jones clipped the bar and it was Richard Knight who was called into repeated action during the first 20 minutes as Rugby played some neat football. David Staff curled in two corners causing real threat as on 13 minutes following another effort by Jones who carried the ball, set himself and fired in a clean shot bringing the best from Knight. From the corner Knight was again in action as the ball flew through a crowd of bodies.

For the home side Martin Brown picked up a knee injury on 8 minutes being substituted five minutes later by young Jack Longford. Hadland switched to centre-back forming an effective pairing with the impressive Green. In this opening spell Brackley found lacked a cutting edge and saw little possession in the Rugby half. Nevertheless Harper stretched his legs on 7 minutes to chase Oldfield’s through ball and again on 15 minutes showed a turn of speed in trying to latch on to another pass played through in the home side’s only attacking strategy.

Guy Hadland

For Rugby the otherwise impressive Jamaican-born Dave Stone wasted a chance on 19 minutes shooting tamely before Brackley started to see greater possession and chances began to flow. The diminutive and eager Paterson teed up a shot from 12 yards but volleyed it just over in Brackley’s closest effort in a disappointing first half hour. Chris Harper’s running and determination posed the greatest threat and a run down the right on 31 minutes saw him hold the ball up before cleverly playing in Oldfield who shot over. Three minutes later good interplay between Spencer and Harper set up a shot that Spencer blasted over from distance.

Rugby came back and within minutes a skilful dribble by Stone led to a handball by Paterson and a clear penalty for the visitors. Stefan Morley strode up and Knight saved leaping to his right like a salmon.

Richard Knight pulls off a dramatic penalty save

Just five minutes later and Brackley had earned their own penalty as the battling Harper was wrestled over. Danny Spencer struck his kick as had Morley to the ‘keeper’s right and again it was well saved but this time Paterson was following up and slotted home from close range to give the Saints a barely deserved lead. Two minutes later the hard-working Spencer received a pass in the penalty area but skewed his shot high and wide.

Jamie Paterson nets Saints goal and is then congratulated by his team-mates

In the away dressing room the half-time scores would have urged Rugby on to settle their own fate and they came out for the second half and were level within a minute. Former Brackley-man Neil King saw his shot well saved before the ball was crossed in again for Tom Breward to score the equaliser with a fine shot past Knight. This was the best either side could produce in a hard fought but ultimately dour second half stale-mate. Rugby made full use of their bench bringing on Musgrave, Pearson and Lolodynski as the game wore on but a 76th minute penalty shout was waved away and a good effort by Musgrave after 83 minutes were the only highlights for Rugby.

Knighty is powerless to prevent The Valley equalising early in the 2nd half

For the home side several late half chances may have created a winner on a day when the result mattered more than it did in this grey and windswept end of season encounter. With 15 minutes remaining Spencer’s shot was headed off the line in a let-off for the visitors, five minutes later Savage stabbed just over and with four minutes to play a further possible penalty was refused.

Josh Green and Boss David Oldfield track Rugby's David Stone

The 1-1 full-time score-line reflected the balance of a tight game and in truth neither side deserved the victory. With one remaining league fixture at Clevedon the Saints must avoid defeat to claim a creditable eighth place in what has been a fine first season for the club at this level before taking on Conference outfit Rushden and Diamonds in the Hillier Cup Final days later to bring down the curtain on another season. It has been a season of surprises and great change. The next time home supporters gather for matchday the ground will boast a new stand, whose component parts lie ready and waiting for assembly: another symbol of the club’s ambition. Proof that change was in the air came within moments of those supporters melting away after the game as the board announced the end of Dave Oldfield’s time as manager and that the search for his successor was underway.

Relief at the end for Rugby Town as their fans celebrate survival in the BGB Premier

16/04/08

Tiverton Town 1 - 1 Brackley Town

Report (from Tiverton Town website)

Line Up :

Richard Knight; Kamran Abbassi, Phil Murphy, Guy Hadland, Josh Green, Craig Richards, Dave Savage, Danny Spencer (Alex Fisher 46), Jerome Anderson (David Oldfield 69), Chris Harper

Att 198

12/04/08

Kings Lynn 2 - 1 Brackley Town

Saints returned from the long trip to Norfolk with no points from a determined display. The Linnets 3rd highest crowd of the season witnessed an excellent game of football with the home side taking a first half lead but then being under pressure during the second, Tom Winters goal with 20 minutes of the game remaining ensuring no-one left early!

Forced into several changes due to injury Brackley were under pressue from the first whistle as their championship chasing opponents took the game to the visitors.

David Oldfield clears during the first half

Several chances went begging including the free kick below that beat Knight but not the bar before Saints finally got into the game, Chirs Harper having a smart shot at the near post saved, and Danny Spencer firing narrowly over from the resulting corner.

Saints then conceeded two goals in quick succesion, the first a driect free kick from the edge of the box that 'Keeper Knight could do little about (below), and the second a header from a deep right wing cross, both scored by Joe Francis.

Joe Francis celebrates his second goal

After the break a determined Brackley took the game to their nervy hosts, a sucession of half chances followed before, on around 70 minutes, Tom Winters fiered in a free kick from the edge of the box after a foul on Chris Harper.

Lynn 'keeper can do little to prevent Tom Winters free kick

Following that the away side dominated possesion, the home 'keeper made amends for his free kick error with a couple of good saves (one from a Danny Spencer header - below).... but it was not to be!

Saints acknowledge the away following afterthe match

As an additional comment it has to be said that Kings Lynn are one of the friendliest clubs we have vistied this year, everyone connected with the club made all from Brackley feel welcome and we wish you well for the remainder of the season

08/04/08

Chippemham Town 1 - 2 Brackley Town

Att 369

report from Chippenham Town FC

05/04/08

Brackley Town 1 - 2 Mangotsfield Town

Jerome Anderson, signed on loan on Thursday, replaced the Oxford bound Alex Fisher in the Saints line up as they faced relegation threatend Mangotsfield United at St James' Park this afternoon.

Early chances came the way of the home side and Anderson had a goal disallowed for offside after a smart shot from Winters was saved by the away 'keeper.

The visitor took the lead just before half time when Thorne headed in on 42 minutes after hesitation by the home defence.

Saints started the second half brightly and deservedly drew level on 59 minutes, Danny Spencers taking the ball well inside the area and placing a shot inside the near post.

10 minutes later however, the visitors from Bristol regained the advantage through Griffin and hung on despite late home pressure to record a vital win in their fight for survival.

29/03/08

Brackley Town 2 - 1 Bedford Town

Report - Tim Carroll

Pictures - John Willshere

What a difference five days can make as Brackley came roaring back from Easter Monday’s nadir at Corby with a splendid performance in an entertaining game against a Bedford Town side, relegated from Conference South last season and in grave danger of slipping a further level this year. Manager Dave Oldfield was honest with his players after the game at the Rockingham Triangle where the collective performance fell below what is acceptable at St James Park. With full backs Phil Murphy and Craig Richards, captain Dave Savage and young loan striker Alex Fisher restored to the team the 325 strong crowd witnessed a purposeful and enterprising performance to rank with the best of the season. Midfielder Ryan Semple made his home debut following away appearances at Halesowen and Corby.

On an afternoon of further terrible weather with driving rain and blustery winds this eventful game included much good football by both sides, with the visitors especially strong in an even first half, three goals and several strange incidents to log in the club annals. Seven months to the week since Brackley’s 4-3 victory at sun-baked The Eyrie this game too was to be settled by just the odd goal. Hovering around the relegation battle, The Eagles turned out in blue and kicked with the wind towards the Cricket Ground end in the first half. To the relief of Monday’s travelling support, and surely the players, The Saints wore the reassuring red and white hoops casting the Bank Holiday’s yellow and red concoction into the dustbin of history along with the tepid performance.

Bedford started well creating danger on three occasions in the early minutes. First young Jonathon Woolf bent in a free-kick that just skimmed through for a goal kick before a long goal kick from Stevens deflected away for a throw-in and on 6 minutes right-back Miller’s cross nearly found the head of left-back Lawley. Woolf in particular was a continual threat during the first half. On 7 minutes came the first real chance and it was created by Richards who won the ball and fed Winters whose shot was just wide in a warning to Bedford, it being Winters who had notched two of Brackley’s goals in the August encounter.

Brackley enjoyed a period of possession and created half chances leading up to the opening goal. On 10 minutes Semple’s cross-shot from the right was flicked wide of goal by Spencer and a minute later Fisher fired in a cross that was despatched for the game’s first corner but which came to nothing. Brackley’s play was bright and inventive with good passing and real threat down both wings from the ever-present and tricky Winters and now from Ryan Semple on the right. After 16 minutes Semple’s dribble beat full-back Lawley but his low shot across the penalty box slid just wide. Within minutes the home side were ahead as the ball fell at Guy Hadland’s feet after a good build up and his shot could only be half saved by Stevens in the Bedford goal allowing Hadland to follow up and slam the ball into the goal.

Fighting for their Premier League status Bedford came back immediately and centre-forward Draycott had a golden chance with time and space to slot past Knight but he could not get his shot away.

After 21 minutes Evesham referee James Cox stepped into the limelight unwittingly intercepting the ball for the second time in the game, on this occasion to deny the visitors. However at one intervention to each side there could be no accusation of bias and in truth Mr Cox enjoyed a good game keeping the play flowing and managing players with humour and commonsense. That notwithstanding the referee missed a clear handball by an attacking Bedford player on 22 minutes before awarding Bedford a free-kick centrally positioned and just 20 yards from Richard Knight’s goal. Bedford’s tactic used on several occasions involved lining up their own mini diversionary wall in front of the ball and attempting to infiltrate a player into the defensive wall. Such cunning plans were thwarted however on this occasion by Murphy’s brave block flinging himself in the path of Sozzo’s shot. The ball was fed back in and Draycott headed goalwards bringing out a superb fingertip save by Knight conceding a corner. Bedford had responded well to falling behind and their pressure led to the equaliser two minutes later as Matt Childs drilled a low shot through bodies in the box to find the bottom corner with Knight stranded and Brown lying prone, injured on the ground.

This was the visitors’ best spell and on the half hour clever play by Woolf found Draycott whose sure shot was well saved for another corner. As Woolf sized up his corner kick he some how snared himself on the corner flag caught in the strong wind. This brought referee Cox once again into action. He chose not to call for emergency reparations nor to remove the offending post (which would have contravened the rules of the game for corner flags are a required part of the pitch appearing even in the earliest published FA rule book of 1863) but rather to bend it vigorously to render safe. Eventually the corner was played in and cleared.

Craig Richards

Brackley ended the half in the ascendancy again with Spencer going close on 34 minutes from a probing run and long pass by Winters. Another Winters run won a corner taken by Semple from which Winters chipped in a deft cross that was scrambled away. With five minutes of the half remaining Savage broke free on the right and screwed the ball back but over before Fisher just failed to connect in a further goalmouth scramble. Savage received a yellow card for a foul as Bedford pressed right on half time. The referee whistled up for the break with the score at 1-1.

The teams returned unchanged and the visitors forced the first corner on 3 minutes but with the wind at their backs Brackley were soon on top and searching for the lead. On the hour Winters tormented the full-back before shooting fiercely across goal for Fisher to arrive with uncanny timing at the far post to turn in his second goal in two appearances and to take the game again to The Eagles. But it was Brackley who continued to come forward with Bedford’s brightest subdued in this second period.

Tom Winters just beaten to the ball

Tom Winters ran at defenders at will to create openings but this afternoon his shooting was rarely on target. A powerful effort on 61 minutes was close before Spencer held off a challenge and loosed a snap shot that also just missed Stevens’ goal before Bedford’s only moments of real threat in a muted second half display as first the ball was laid across the goal but there was nobody in attendance to turn it in and then Sozzo found space inside the box and could have gone down under a clumsy challenge but played in a cross that found Kierans whose well struck, low shot was only inches wide. The home defence breathed again. Midway through the half saw some petulance from the hard working Spencer and Bedford captain Stupple dealt with well by the referee who kept his cards in his pocket.

Alex Fisher nets Saints second

Brackley searched in vain for a third goal to make the game safe. After 75 minutes a defensive mistake gave away a corner whipped in to the near post by Winters and Spencer headed over. Centre-half Grieve obstructed Spencer conceding a free-kick 30 yards out but in fruitful territory for Winters. Having seen Bedford’s devious free-kick wall routine Brackley followed suit with Hadland and Savage forming the protective mini-wall but the ploy proved equally as unsuccessful as it had for The Eagles with Winters’ shot failing to find the target.

Kameron Abassi

The first of a flurry of substitutions followed first with Bedford swapping Hatch on for Sozzo with ten minutes remaining. Still it was Brackley more likely to add to the score as Savage picked up the ball to pick out Winters who scurried past the defender to the bye-line to win the first of two corners. From the second, Winters himself collected the clearance but unleashed a wasteful, speculative effort. Bedford made a second substitution bringing on Phillips for Draycott on 85 minutes. A minute later Spencer’s flick fell to Winters who shot powerfully but wide before Winters made way for Ingram, the new signing from Stafford Rangers making his home debut. A charging run by Richards was only halted by a foul and Spencer’s shot from the free-kick was on target but well taken by the goalkeeper. Spencer gave way in the 90 th minute for Harper as it was Brackley who continued to press. The comfort of a bigger margin was not to be but on the final whistle the players were able to celebrate a double over opponents Bedford Town, a pleasing performance overall throughout the team, two goals and three points to maintain the merest of outside interest in the final play-off place going into the final six league matches.

 

24/03/08

Corby Town 2 - 0 Brackley Town

Pictures - Brian Martin and John Willshere

Report - Tim Carroll

Knight; Green, Oldfield, Brown (c), G Hadland; Kearns, Reeves, Patterson, Semple; Spencer, Winters. Subs: Harper (for Winters 45), Ingram (for Kearns 60), Willshere (for Reeves 85).

“Patience is a minor form of despair, disguised as virtue” (Ambrose Bierce, 1911). This may not be true and a desolate Easter weekend for The Saints of two defeats and no goals tested the patience beyond the point of virtue. Brackley fans looking to enjoy the Bank Holiday Monday stayed away from Corby Town’s Rockingham Triangle stadium as The Saints failed to fire. Glorious sunshine interrupted by blizzards of snow formed the back-drop to this Easter game at the least spectator-friendly stadium in the league with fans peering into the distance to locate the game beyond eight lanes of athletics track, rows of hurdles and jumping pits at this single-sided, multi-purpose, civic complex. The pitch however was flat and true.

Martin Brown again captained the side

Ravaged by injury, suspension and illness another make-shift team took to the field against a Corby side battling relegation. With Farley, Savage, Hill, Murphy and Richards all unavailable Oldfield started himself at left back with Green at right back and a central defensive pairing of Hadland and Brown. Former Corby-man Patterson and Semple made their second appearances in a Brackley shirt in a midfield quartet but a squad at breaking point could only field three substitutes.

Saints go one down (from two angles!)

As if to set the mood for the afternoon ahead Brackley ran out in a shocking combination of home and away kit wearing yellow shirts and red shorts. But Corby were not phased by this and from the kick-off took the game to their visitors. After just 4 minutes the Steelmen created the first chance as a header by Nicell was just wide and on 8 minutes they went ahead. The Brackley defence failed to clear from a set-piece following good work by Nicell and recent signing from Stamford, 21 year old Leon Metam, headed the opener.

Tom Winters

On 13 minutes Corby striker Diggin conceded possession to Spencer in the Corby half. Good inter-play between Winters and Spencer saw a cross played in that was just clawed away by ‘keeper Davies. But it was the home side that carried the threat with Diggin, Metam, Nicell and Maddox all lively. Corby won numerous corners and always threatened in the air. Stand-in left-back Dave Oldfield battled manfully but time and again attacks came down the Corby right wing. After 22 minutes Corby withdrew defender Diuk with an injury and brought on another newly-arrived striker from Stamford, Tony Battersby. A series of set-piece kicks tested the defenders and Knight was called upon to save sharply, in particular on 33 minutes when he superbly tipped a header over. A minute later and another corner set up Metam for a low shot that shaved Knight’s left-hand post. On half-time Reeves was yellow-carded for a late foul on full-back Wall and in added time Winters’ dipping free-kick at last called Davies into action. At the whistle Brackley trooped off just a single goal behind but with a mountain to climb.

Browny goes close

Martin Reeves

The second half started in farce as Harper replaced the injured Winters. Within minutes Corby won a first corner but the referee’s assistant spotted that the Brackley substitution had not been correctly made and the game stopped for a yellow card to Harper. Spencer was next up for a card following a clash in the box but suddenly the game had turned and it was Brackley pushing forward. When Kearns was replaced by Ingram on the hour Corby had failed to advance even once into the Brackley half following that first corner. Nevertheless, despite the visitors enjoying all the possession the Corby defence appeared secure and their lead safe.

Ryan Semple

Danny Spencer

From dramatically dark skies the snow came down to provide an instant covering before retreating just as quickly as the sun re-appeared. On 67 minutes Corby made a first incursion into the Brackley half but it carried no threat as the home side seemed content to defend what it had. At the other end a deflected shot rebounded from Davies’ legs to safety on 70 minutes and Semple’s run led to a corner 5 minutes later before Semple’s run and cross brought a fumble at full stretch by the goalkeeper. But that was sadly the extent of the Brackley threat on this afternoon and with 7 minutes remaining prolific Corby striker Steve Diggin was put through and calmly notched the second goal of the game to secure three crucial points for the relegation-threatened Steelmen. Two minutes later Diggin again tried his luck but his long range effort was just wide. To bring further indignity to defeat, young substitute goalkeeper Willshere was drafted in as an outfield replacement for Reeves with 5 minutes to play.

Jamie Patterson

Josh Green nearly pulls one back

Terrible conditions at times!

Tom Willshere on as an outfield sub

and nearly scored!

 

Distaught as Corby steal another on the break!

At the full-time whistle exhausted player-manager Oldfield could only reflect on his own reserves of energy for lasting the full 90 minutes and on arguably the most lacklustre Saints’ performance of the season. Those reserves of energy will be needed in full if his team’s fine season is not now to end in disappointment and instead find a final flourish.

22/03/08

Halesowen Town 2 - 0 Brackley Town

Att 470

Report - Tim Carroll

Pictures - Brian Martin

With last Saturday’s fixture at Tiverton a late victim of torrential rain and the previous weekend’s home victory over Bromsgrove played out in the teeth of a gale nobody could be surprised at the weather that confronted players and spectators at Halesowen’s The Grove. The Roaring Forties and Hornblower himself would have felt at home in these conditions as a howling, icy wind and driving snow swept this corner of the West Midlands. Bizarrely a tuneful ice cream van circled the ground during the second half but added only a scornful irony to the scene and for Brackley left a bitter taste of defeat rather than the sweet taste of success of Brackley’s last visit here in balmy October when goals from Farley and Spencer had knocked the home side out of the FA Trophy. On this occasion, amidst extreme weather, extreme refereeing cost the Saints as the Yeltz claimed the points.

Illness and injury, departures and suspensions shaped a new-look Brackley side with three debutants in the starting eleven. Jamie Patterson started for the first time since signing from Corby joining Ryan Sample (above) in midfield, the Oxford United player having signed in midweek. At full back new signing Tom Ingram from Stafford Rangers started on the right with Jamie Kearns filling an unaccustomed left back berth and in a difficult first half both looked out of sorts, exposed to the skilful running of Halesowen’s outstanding duo of Anya and Maquemba.

Tom Ingram

As if reluctant to brave the elements the officials led out the teams as three o’clock struck delaying the kick-off by some minutes after three. Halesowen kicked off with the wind at their backs and immediately utilised this advantage enjoying possession in the away half. A dangerous ball played in on 7 minutes threatened Richard Knight’s goal before two minutes later the dangerous former Kettering man Andy Hall fired in a low shot that was superbly saved by Knight only for the referee to award the home side a penalty, apparently having allowed play to continue after pushing in the box only to award a penalty when the advantage was squandered. This mystified everybody in the ground and can only be described as making a mockery of the rules of the game. The penalty was despatched into the top right corner by goal ace Dean Brennan despite Knight guessing right and getting close (below).

Fired by injustice Brackley fought back. Martin Reeves was involved in two good moves as on 13 minutes his cross was met by Spencer’s head for Winters to set up Patterson who fired over and two minutes later for Reeves’ deflected shot to produce a corner from which Spencer’s free header flew over.

Martin Brown on the attack

Again within minutes Reeves shot to win a further corner which Halesowen defended well. Halesowen’s Denney was booked for bringing down Kearns before good work on the left by the tricky Anya produced a cross from which Maquemba shot just wide. Jamie Kearns picked up a first booking for Brackley.

Martin Reeves

Despite the 0-1 deficit Brackley created as much as the home side. In a good spell of play midway through the half Spencer raced away beating the defender but could not get in his cross, good work by Semple created another corner, Spencer’s pass to Semple saw the new-boy flagged just off-side before on 34 minutes Semple found room for a shot but it went over. Halesowen came back and good play by Hall found Anya at Knight’s far post but he could not turn the ball into the goal.

Guy Hadland just fails to connect from a corner

Brackley continued to enjoy good possession around the Halesowen penalty area without finding a clear scoring chance before Anya again made ground along the left wing and crossed for Brennan whose headed attempt was well saved. At the break only a bizarre penalty decision divided the teams.

Tom Winters

The second half started brightly for the visitors pegging Halesowen into their own half aided by the strong wind and sudden blizzard conditions. After just four minutes of the half a penalty claim was turned down by Newcastle referee Hayward leaving Brackley players to reflect that penalties had been awarded in less controversial circumstances in the same goalmouth just 40 minutes before! The next fifteen minutes saw the second half’s defining moments as Brackley pressure failed to produce the equaliser. The best chance fell to Ryan Semple whose header at the far post on 58 minutes was brilliantly saved by ‘keeper Osborn conceding a corner. Halesowen produced two good efforts on target bringing out the very best in Knight who kept the Saints in the game before the ever-dangerous Maquemba ran on to a good through-ball, shrugged off a challenge and struck a clean shot past Knight for a 2-0 lead on 65 minutes.

Immediately Brackley switched Harper and Hill on for Patterson and Green in a bold response to this reverse but the die was set. In the remaining time Tom Winters began to see more of the ball on what was a frustrating afternoon for him but the home side survived the few half chances created. On 76 minutes a good move by Reeves and Semple produced a goalmouth scramble but Halesowen survived. Oldfield replaced Semple who showed much on his debut and Halesowen replaced centre back Amos making his 100 th Southern League appearance with Perpetuini. Spencer and Ingram collected yellow cards and Brackley ran until the end but it was not to be. The 500-strong home supporters huddled mainly on the terracing behind the goal and behind the dug-outs knew that the day was theirs and enjoyed their afternoon. For Brackley, a line-up of unfamiliar faces against a strong opposition with an impressive forward line and the injustice of an early penalty award were simply too much and on this day had no answer.

 

08/03/08

Brackley Town 3 - 0 Bromsgrove Rovers

Att 282

Report - Tim Carroll

Pictures - John Willshere

A big thank-you to Bromsgrove Rovers Supporters for donating a total of £51 towards the sponsorship of a race at Elliot Sandy's benefit Race Night - It is much appreciated

A lacklustre Rovers were no match for a re-vitalised Brackley Town side that fully deserved the three points on a chill and windswept afternoon at SJP. The biggest home crowd since New Year’s Day enjoyed a performance full of spirit and enterprise, a first clean sheet in five games, three goals and chances galore. Missing Scott and Guy Hadland and captain Dave Savage all through suspension Brackley started with 17 year old Oxford United loan signing Alex Fisher paired up front with Danny Spencer, and Chris Harper and newcomer from Halesowen Shane Hill in midfield. Returning to SJP with Bromsgrove was last season’s stalwart left back and local favourite Les Hines.

Alex Fisher

Shane Hill

Defending the Let’s Go Disco Stand end and kicking into the teeth of a March gale the Saints made a dream start with two goals in the first four minutes. The first came after just three minutes as Spencer turned away from two defenders and played a through ball for Harper running up the left and into the penalty area before crossing for young Alex Fisher to net on his debut.

Within moments goalscorer Fisher turned provider playing in Spencer who slotted home with aplomb for his third goal in four games.

From the re-start Brackley gained possession and from Harper’s right wing cross won the game’s first corner. Winters’ corner was not collected by the ‘keeper and scrambled clear. Rovers were stunned and took until the 11 th minute to threaten when good build up play by centre forward Davis forced a corner. Meanwhile Brackley continued to cut the away defence apart with the running and passing of Spencer, Fisher, Winters and Harper. On 12 minutes Josh Green cleared well to Harper who found Winters whose cross fell to Fisher but the young striker could not find the finish to crown a glorious passing move. Six minutes later Winters’ free kick led to another corner from which the ball fell loose and was cleared. Despite the stiff wind in their faces it was the home side that continued to press and on 19 minutes Hill passed to Harper whose cross found Spencer only for his shot to bobble through to veteran ‘keeper Taylor who first turned out for Rovers in 1988.

A rare threat from Rovers on 21 minutes saw a left wing cross met by Bridgewater arriving late but his shot was just over. This led to the visitors’ best spell of the game with a long range effort well off target by Davis, a sliding tackle by Brackley stand-in captain Martin Brown saving the day and two corners neither of which troubled Knight in the home goal. The Saints also created further chances but at times the wind made a lottery of crossing. At one end Richard Knight’s kicking would not reach the halfway line, at the other Taylor’s kicks reached Knight on the first bounce.

Captain for the day, Martin Brown, puts pressure on the visitors defence

Rarely this season have so many clear cut chances been created by the home side and again on 33 minutes Spencer was put clear but one-on-one with the ‘keeper skewed over in a real let-off for Rovers. After 34 minutes Martin Reeves was forced off through injury and was replaced by David Oldfield and a minute later Chris Harper required attention following injury. The final five minutes of the half saw Rovers at last putting pressure on the home goal winning two further corners and bringing last-ditch clearances from a well-marshalled defence with Phil Murphy in particular outstanding in this first half. A final, well struck, low shot by Alsop for Rovers was well saved by Knight and brought the first half’s action to a close.

The second half saw somewhat calmer conditions as the wind eased but squalls of rain added to the difficult conditions. Rovers won an early corner but it was not until the 70 th minute that Knight was tested when he produced a fine finger-tip save with his full length measured on the turf from the pacy Lambley’s shot and conceding a corner. Two further second half corners were to be the sum total of the visitors’ ambitions on a miserable afternoon for them. Meanwhile Brackley continued to produce some inventive forward play with Winters more of a threat than in the first half and Fisher and Spencer always alert. A well-weighted fiftieth minute pass by Spencer found Fisher whose shot produced a first second-half corner for the home team and from which Brown almost connected with his head. This was followed swiftly by a delightful turn and shot by Spencer that was well saved.

Craig Richards

Brackley were caught off-side on several occasions, often by only the narrowest of margins, as on 57 minutes when Spencer ran on to Winters’ deft header only to be flagged by the ever-eager referee’s assistant. After 62 minutes the hard-running Harper was replaced by Kearns but Brackley continued in the ascendancy with further goals always likely.

Shane Hill impressed on his debut and his 76th minute pass over the defenders to Winters was taken in his stride by the flying winger but his finish on this occasion was wayward with the goal beckoning. Two minutes later another fine chance went inexplicably begging as the willing Spencer latched onto a perfect pass to find himself with time and space to round the ‘keeper but his finish rolled across the open goalmouth and wide. Five minutes later Spencer’s flicked header found Fisher who cut the ball back only to be beaten away by the goalkeeper before Hill blazed high over the bar. Two corners built the pressure on the away defence before the 89 th minute brought the deserved third goal to seal a handsome victory. Tom Winters’ 13 th league goal of the season was another blistering shot that ‘keeper Taylor did well to avoid and came courtesy of a sublime passage of play. Collecting the ball on the right Spencer held up play before picking out the on-rushing Hill through the middle. Hill executed the perfect step-over to set up Winters who despatched with real venom and obvious glee.

Picking a Man of the Match would not be easy on a day when the defence was outstanding, the midfield combative and creative, and the strike-force potent. With nine league games, six of which are away fixtures, and a cup final clash with Rushden and Diamonds remaining there is much to play for as this win cements eighth place and a continuing interest in the fourth play-off slot. While suspensions and injuries will play a part there can be no doubting the encouragement to be mined from this excellent performance and run of six games unbeaten.

Mike Curtis photo album

04/03/08

Swindon Supermarine 1 - 1 Brackley Town

Att 77

Team : Willshere, Richards, Murphy, G.Hadland, Brown, Green, S.Hadland, Savage, Spencer, Kearns, Winters. Subs Patterson, Harper, Oldfield.

Saints returned from Wiltshire with a point, but for the second game in a row led away from home.

Danny Spencer opened the scoring early in the game, the hosts replied just after the break to earn a share of the points.

01/03/08

Hemel Hempstead 1 - 1 Brackley Town

Att 241

Report Tim Carroll

With the two teams competing for the final play-off spot this was always set to be a tight encounter and so it proved on a beautifully sunny but windy Hertfordshire afternoon. Brackley travelled to Vauxhall Road buoyed by the midweek semi-final cup win at Rothwell Town and last Saturday’s hard-fought home win against Cirencester but with a thin squad of just 14 players. Popular, former-Hemel man Jamie Kearns started on the bench with strikers Chris Harper and Russ Dunkley. For their part the Tudors came into the game still smarting from the departure of striker Drew Roberts to Cambridge City and off a run of poor February results, although cheered by last weekend’s home win against Bedford.

Brackley began the half well. Playing in all yellow with the wind at their backs and a low sun streaming down the length of the pitch making the lives of the Hemel defenders and the ‘keeper difficult Brackley created what few half chances there were with Tom Winters the main supplier down the left. The first direct effort on either goal came on 9 minutes as Guy Hadland rose to meet Martin Reeves’ cross. The home team then enjoyed a good spell of possession and on 15 minutes had two shots on goal, one that was well blocked, the other went wide.

The game’s first corner fell to the visitors after 26 minutes but it was Hemel who came closest to opening the scoring on 25 minutes as Richard Knight was called into action. Five minutes later Hemel captain Edgeworth ran through the defence to beat Knight and face an open goal. As the home fans leapt to celebrate the ball struck the post and was somehow cleared to keep the score goalless. At the other end Winters was put through but was well marshalled by stout defending.

In the ascendancy Hemel came close again on 36 minutes as a free-kick was only half-cleared and a shot flew in to hit the crossbar. Brown was yellow-carded following an aerial clash before Hemel’s centre-forward Chris Dillon found himself clear on goal but could not find the finish. As the half-time whistle neared Brackley were pleased to hang on for the break as first Knight saved superbly at full length before Martin’s persistence on the edge of the box created two shots on goal and finally Burgess somehow blazed over from two yards as the visitors’ goal led a charmed life.

Both teams returned from their deserved half-time cuppa unchanged and determined to capture all three points. Immediately Hemel’s Burgess found space for a shot on goal but was wide before Danny Spencer’s low shot beat Brown’s dive and struck the post, the ‘keeper sustaining a knee injury requiring treatment. The stoppage galvanised Brackley again and the Saints enjoyed a period of more controlled play pressing Hemel back. On 52 minutes a clever move up the left saw the ball played in, Winters dummied for Guy Hadland to arrive on the penalty spot and strike a low shot that Brown saved point-blank in Brackley’s best chance of the game so far. Hemel threatened sporadically as on 57 minutes when only a last-ditch saving tackle by Martin Brown on Hemel’s Harry Hunt prevented a clear run on goal but it was Brackley who looked the more inventive in this second period. Spencer’s cross-field pass found Reeves who delightfully lobbed the keeper from distance but it fell wide.

As the game entered the final quarter it was well poised with both sides working hard in blustery conditions. A single goal could settle this with a defensive error always likely on a bobbly pitch. Reeves was withdrawn just after the hour mark with an injury and could look back on a good performance. Kearns replaced him in midfield and immediately showed some bite in the tackle keeping the visitors competitive in the critical midfield area.

While Hemel won the game’s second corner on 63 minutes and brought a superb save from Knight it was Brackley who continued to threaten especially from the left where Kearns, Winters and Spencer combined well. Half chances fell to Winters, Spencer and Scott Hadland and a flowing Hemel move along the right wing threatened but there was no end product for either side. After 74 minutes Guy Hadland was swapped for Chris Harper who added pace on the right but a minute later it was a move on the left that saw a Winters shot hit a Hemel hand and Hoddesdon referee Gary Evetts did not hesitate in pointing to the spot. Scott Hadland strode up to take the kick and confidently gave the Saints the lead, sending ‘keeper Brown the wrong way.

Brackley threatened again as Harper crossed and Hemel’s Edgeworth tested his own ‘keeper, Ian Brown doing well to keep the ball out, the ‘keeper seemingly hampered by his earlier injury. On 79 minutes Dave Savage could not argue with a yellow card as he brought down Martin deep in the Brackley half as the Hemel man tried to skip through. From the free-kick the cross was pumped over into a crowded penalty area and striker Chris Dillon’s header brought the sides level. The final stages of the game brought Russ Dunkley on for scorer Scott Hadland, the home team gave a late debut to new signing Graham Hall, and Craig Richards and Jamie Kearns collected yellow cards as Brackley fought to hold on but in truth neither side threatened to grab a late winner.

Both sides can take credit from this hard-earned draw. While Hemel failed to take some gilt-edged first half chances, Brackley came back strongly after half-time to seize the initiative. The visitors will reflect with disappointment on losing the lead having gone ahead late in the game but overall a share of the spoils was a fair reflection on possession and chances in a game played in a good spirit between two well-matched sides on a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon for the exuberant crowd of 241.

 

 

26/02/08

Rothwell Town 1 - 3 Brackley Town

Att 92

Pictures - John Willshere

Danny Spencer is fouled, the resulting free-kick superbly taken by Tom Winters to give Saints 1 - 0 lead

Spencer then made it 2 - 0 from close range

Tom Winters celbrates his second and Brackley's third on the night

23/02/08

Brackley Town 2 - 1 Cirencester Town

Report - Tim Carroll

Pictures - Brian Martin & John Willshere

Match Sponsored by Lets Go Disco

Brackley emerged from this hard fought afternoon deservedly with all three points after a spirited and disciplined team performance. Cirencester contributed to a good game but ultimately were unconvincing in front of goal, as the second poorest scoring record in the division and a string of four consecutive defeats testify. Sadly the game was marred by a mystifying refereeing decision midway through the first half that saw captain Dave Savage limp off red carded to the astonishment of players and spectators alike. Cirencester is a picturesque Cotswold town with a proud Roman ancestry but it was not to be the Saints who were thrown to the lions on this occasion as the home side stood firm.

On a dry, dull afternoon the game started quietly in difficult, blustery conditions. However after 7 minutes Stevenage Borough loanee Jerome Anderson was put through on the right but his early shot bobbled wide. Cirencester won the game’s first corner as Richard Knight’s despairing dive could not prevent the ball going out but it was cleared safely before Craig Richards’ cross was collected by Martin Reeves on the edge of the box, he spun and fired in a shot that was blocked. On 12 minutes Brackley scored the opening goal to settle the nerves as Tom Winters latched onto to a good pass by stand-in centre-back Guy Hadland, made ground up the wing cutting inside and scoring with a superb shot with Anderson also free in the middle (below).

The pattern was set for the fist half as the home side threatened with Winters and Anderson linking well. Wearing their changed strip of all blue Cirencester occasionally pressed but created few chances. On 13 minutes Knight saved well to cut out a cross and Chapman and Robertson had speculative shots, Chapman’s 20 th minute long-range effort testing the back-peddling Knight. For Brackley Anderson and Danny Spencer were rarely far from the action. Anderson just failed to connect with Winters’ beautifully hooked cross after 15 minutes and a minute later Spencer was away up the left but his cross was cut out. Martin Reeves was industrious on the right and his 21 st minute cross was well taken by ‘keeper Bullman as Anderson threatened before minutes later a Spencer shot went over. On 24 minutes Spencer’s battling qualities came to the fore as he chased a lost cause and from the ensuing Winters’ free-kick the ball was only cleared under pressure.

Phil Murphy had another fine game at left back

As the half hour approached Spencer almost reached Reeves’ through pass as the golden-shirted Bullman cleared. As the loose ball was contested in midfield several players challenged going to ground with skipper Dave Savage appearing to be fouled. Savage stayed down receiving treatment during the four minute stoppage during which Warley referee Mark Weaver yellow carded Cirencester’s dread-locked centre-forward Ashan Holgate. Mysteriously Weaver then red carded the hobbling Savage and awarded the free kick to the visitors who appeared as surprised as everybody else.

Once the game re-started Brackley were forced back as the visitors took the initiative and the Saints failed to keep possession. Cirencester won a corner which was only scrambled clear and two shots on goal were blocked. Suddenly the speedy Anderson was Brackley’s only outlet and the home side was holding on as the team re-organised without its captain and central midfielder.

On 41 minutes however came a moment to lift the home crowd as Brackley won a free kick to relieve the pressure. Tom Winters struck the kick that was only half cleared to full-back Phil Murphy whose cross was met by Anderson only for the ball to beat the stricken ‘keeper (below)

but bounce back from the cross-bar to be met by Martin Brown’s left foot exquisite shot into the goal for a 2-0 lead.

Browny celebrates

Both sides came close in the remaining minutes to half-time. A back-pass in the home defence caused consternation as Knight sliced his clearance but Robertson shot into the side-netting before at the other end Winters wriggled through to set up Anderson whose shot was blocked. The half-time interval arrived with the home side 2-0 ahead but a man down and the players trooped off with heads still shaking following the red card.

The Centurions swapped Matt Shaxton for captain Chris Collins at half-time with centre-half Lee Molyneaux taking over captaincy duties. The game re-started with the home supporters muttering darkly about the importance of a solid first ten minutes. With a prescience known only to the football faithful Cirencester immediately opened their account winning a corner on the right and Nathan Haisley stooping to glance a header into the net direct from the near-post corner kick. With one minute on the clock the lead had been halved and the Centurions seized the advantage with the stiff wind at their backs and the single Brackley striker ploughing a lonely furrow. Smart work on the right by Holgate brought a good interception by Guy Hadland before Shaxton shot wide and on 68 minutes a free kick by Chapman was arrowed across the penalty area but flew wide.

Scot Hadland looks for Anderson late in the game

Nick Stanley controlled the ball well outside the area but shot wide, typifying the away side’s lack of confidence in front of goal. During this spell Brackley struggled to retain the ball and spent long periods in their own half creating just two moments of note when Winters’ terrific run saw his cross met by Spencer’s header that was blocked and on 15 minutes Spencer charged down a clearance that fell to Anderson who was adjudged narrowly off-side.

Having weathered this difficult period the home side began to create some chances as the speed and skill of Winters and Anderson had the beating of the Centurions’ defence.

Tom Winters takes on the Centurians defence during the second half

In a moment of rare possession on 29 minutes Anderson was clear but his shot was deflected to safety and within a minute Anderson again battled through on the edge of the box only to see his firm shot well saved by Bullman conceding a corner. David Oldfield replaced the splendid-as-ever Winters on 33 minutes and was immediately in the thick of the action playing a through ball to Anderson whose well struck shot cannoned back off the bar with Bullman beaten all ends up. Danny Spencer’s head met a corner to bring a fine low save one-handed by the ‘keeper before Anderson’s final action saw him through on goal with Bullman saving the day again. Chris Harper came on for the outstanding Anderson with 3 minutes to play, straight away running onto Spencer’s pass and bringing a save from the goalie and another home corner.

A late Cirencester fre-kick goes wide

With ever more weary legs the game moved into several minutes of added time. Scott Hadland was yellow carded for attempted handball as ten-man Brackley sought to play out time. There was still time however for one final effort by the visitors and a good chance went begging as a header by Paul Cochlin was wide. In added time Harper’s run was just whistled off-side as he ran clear before a last gasp siege on the home goal brought a free kick that went out for a corner with a headed clearance resulting from the corner. The ensuing further corner was not taken as the referee blew for full time.

Brackley deserved the points that take the team to sixth place and sets up some big matches in the run-in to what has been already a memorable first season in the premier league. Following on from the resolute performance at Bashley this match produced many brave performances with Winters, Anderson, Reeves and Brown (the sponsors Man of the Match and BBC Radios Oxford star!) in particular outstanding.

 

19/02/08

Bashley 0 - 0 Brackley Town

Att 236

Saints line up :

Knight, Richards, Murphy, Reeves, Brown, Green, Kearns, Savage, Spencer, S. Hadland, Winters.

Subs: Dunkley, Harper, Willshere, G.Hadland, Oldfield

The second long distance trip within 4 days saw Saints return from the New Forest with a valuable point against one of their main rivals for a play-off berth in the BGB Premier Division.

Tom Winters was partnered with Danny Spencer up front, Jamie Kearns moving to a wide midfield berth and Martin Reeves coming into the centre in place of Guy Hadland. Scot Hadland came into the right side of midfield.

Saints took the game to the hosts inside the first couple of minutes, Tom Winters twice being superbly denied at close range by the home ‘keeper David Elm. He was nearly caught out on 20 minutes by a deep in-swinging cross from Winters again, using all his 6ft 5inch frame to stop the effort. Saints continued to press but it was their hosts that came closest to scoring on the half hour, Richard Knight producing a wonder right-handed save when the ball looked destined for the top corner, in what was Bashleys only real effort of the opening period.

Five minutes later good work by Winters on the by-line saw the ball hooked back into the area, just eluding Spencer in the box, the loose ball falling to Dave Savage on the 18 yard line, his first time effort went just wide. Just before the break neat interplay between Reeves and Kearns created space for Winters again, but again Elm saved smartly, this time diving to his right.

Half-Time had come at the right time for ‘The Bash’ and they began the second period with an increased tempo resulting in two efforts, both high and wide of Richard Knights goal. Then, in the space of five minutes Saints had 3 clear cut chances, the home ‘keeper again denying Tom Winters (twice) and seeing a Spencer shot fly just wide of his upright. On 56 minutes another deep cross into the home area caused confusion, both Spencer and Scot Hadland were unlucky to see attempts blocked, Savage, with a follow up effort, again saw the ‘keepers excellent handling stop his shot.

Going into the final 15 minutes Brackley pushed as hard as they could for the breakthrough their play all evening had deserved. Winters struck a fierce left foot shot inches past the right hand post with, for once, the ‘keeper well beaten and then, after racing onto a through ball, saw a lobbed shot again beat Elm, but also, agonisingly, the left hand post.

On 81 minutes another scramble in the box led to an effort by Scot Hadland being saved, the rebound fell kindly to Danny Spencer whose first time shot was blocked on the line by a defender.

Bashley then came into the game and pressed for a late winner themselves, despite several good moves they were unable to create a clear opening, Knight in goal being kept occupied with a series of routine catches and goal kicks.

Dunkley replaced Spencer and Oldfield came on for Hadland as the game entered its final phase, however it was not to be and for all their efforts a point was the reward. This was a great attacking display from the whole side and a great response to the defeat at Merthyr on Saturday.

16/02/08

Merthyr Tydfil 4 - 1 Brackley Town

Pictures - John Willshere

Saints line up :

Willshere, Richards, Murphy, G.Hadland, Brown, Green, Kearns, savage, Dunkley, Spencer, Winters

Subs : S. Hadland, Reeves, Harper, Oldfield

Att 289

Saints made the long trip to South Wales but came away empty handed. Despite taking an early lead the final score of 4 - 1 meant Brackley missed the chance to move back into the play-off positions.

Guy Hadland bears down on the Welshmans goal

Russel Dunkley and Josh Green battle in the Merthyr box but just can't force the ball in

Craig Steins breaks tracked by Richards and Brown

Josh Green clears during the 2nd half

 

09/02/08

Brackley Town 3 - 1 Hitchin Town

Pictures - John Willshere

Hitchin Town arrived at St. James Park in warm spring-like sunshine and went on to play a full part in an entertaining clash between two sides that had met just 10 days before. Scot Hadland was restored to the starting line up and Russell Dunkley replaced the departed Scott Rikards alongside loanee Jerome Anderson up front.

Dunks getting stuck in

Saints completed the double over their relegation threatend opponents and went ahead as early as the 2nd minute when Hadland converted from the spot.

Scot Hadlands' spot kick puts Saints one up

Jerome Anderson put the hosts further ahead before the interval and then extended the lead after the break, his 6th goal in four games whilst on loan from Stevenage Borough.

Anderson puts Saints 3-0 up

Then, in the space of five minutes the game could have turned on its head, a bizarre penalty was awarded when the ball appeared to strike Martin Brown full in the face, but was adjudged to have been handled. The resultant kick was dispatched with aplomb, then soon after it ws deja Vous. This time Josh Green was penalised for a challenge, that resulted in both a second spot kick and also Greens' second yellow. Relief was evident around St James' Park when 'keeper Knight saved the second penalty he'd faced in the afternoon.

Richard Knight saves the second Hitchin Penalty with his elbow!

With 20 minutes to go there was plenty of work for the home side to do to see out the game. Danny Spencer replaced Russ Dunkley up front and Guy Hadland came on in place of his brother. As the match entered the final phase Michael Love came on to partner Hadland at the back, Martin Brown making way.

Tom Winters

Chances at both ends came and went but, afterseveral extra minutes the referee brought an end to proceedings and Saints emerged with three valuable points.

02/02/08

Brackley Town 2 - 2 Yate Town

Pictures - John Willshere

Saints were denied what would have been a deserved home victory by a strange penalty award in the last minute if injury time at St James Park this afternoon.

After creating several chances they moved ahead on the half hour, Jerome Anderson finding the net for the thrid time in as many games since his loan move from Stevenage.

The home side went into the break in the lead but in truth they were unlucky not to be further ahead, Winger Towm winters hitting the bar and seeing two other efforts saved, and Anderson spurning a chance just before the deadlock was broken.

The visitors struck back immediately after the re-start, Williams netting in the 47th minute. Saints continued to pressurise the Yate defence, substitutes Russ Dunkley and Joe Benjamin entered the fray to try and grab what would have been a vital win.

The reward came with 10 minutes to go, Anderson again scoring, this time with a fine strike from the edge of the box.

As what had been a very entertaining game came to a close a high ball in the the Brackley box was cleared and, with both sets of players chasing the loose ball, the referee blew his whistle and pointed to the spot claiming a handball by a hooped arm!

Rawlins made no mistake from the spot.

Immediately after the kick off the final whistle was blown.

Although disappointing not to win Saints can take great heart from their performance as they move on to a mid-week cup semi final at Rithwell Town on Tuesday night.

Boss David Oldfield congratulates Jerome Anderson after the on loan striker nets Saints first goal

Jamie Kearns battling in midfield

Michael Love is unlucky not to connect

Russ Dunkley came on as a second half substitute in his first home game since signing from Leamington

Anderson Almost put Saints 2-1 up with this header

before this strik restored the home sides lead

below the on loan striker is congratulated by his team-mates

The visitors make the most of a very generous penalty awarded for an apparent handball!!, Richard Knight unable to prevent a last minute equaliser

29/01/08

Hitchin Town 0 - 1 Brackley Town

Saints made the mid-week trip to Hertfordshire in need of a victory after the disappointment of conceeding two late goals on Saturday. Boss David Oldfield made several changes to the starting line up, Martin Reeves coming into the centre of mid-field to partner Dave Savage, Phil Murphy reverting to his left back role, and Jamie Kearns moving to the right side of midfield. Among the Saints subs was Russ Dunkley and Oldfield himself.

After 10 minutes the vistors created the first opportunity of the game, a good run by Scot Rickards forced a corner that, when delivered was met by Martin Brown who headed just over. Rickards movement was causing the home defence problems and on the quarter hour he combined well with Jerome Anderson to fire just wide with the 'keeper well beaten. Rickards again went close mid-way through the half, Anderson was fouled just outside the box and from the resulting free-kick the ball fell to the striker who unleashed a fierce drive flew past the right hand post.

The home side rallied towards the end of the half, but determined defending, particularly from Craig Richards and a couple of smart saves from Richard Knight maintained parity. Saints were forced into a change when Martin Brown was replaced by David Olifield, the substitute slotting into the centre of midfield and Dave Savage moving alongside Josh Green in the heart of the defence.

The second half began with a period of Saints pressure, the home side unable to clear the ball out of their half. On 48 minutes Rickards was fouled after a mazey run, Tom Winters struck a quick free kick that beat the 'keepers despairing dive, but also the post.

The crucial breakthrough came on 52 minutes, David Oldfield threaded a superb ball around the last defender leaving Jerome Anderson with a clear run on goal from the half way line. The young striker still had a lot to do but kept his cool and calmly chipped the advancing 'keeper to put Saints one up.

Immediately Hitchin came back and good work, first by Craig Richards (with a header off the line) and then by Josh Green kept the lead in tact. Rickards, who had run himself into the ground, was replaced by Russ Dunkley on 65 minutes, the powerful striker making his first appearance since returning to the club from Leamington. His physical presence un-nerved the home defence and helped created chances for both Jamie Kearns and Tom Winters, both saved well by the home custodian.

The home side then rallied and Saints had to endure intense pressure in the last 10 minutes. Joe Benjamin replaced Jerome Anderson and came close to getting behind the defence a couple of times, but it was the home side that came closest to scoring what would have been the games second goal.

The game moved into the 4th minute of stoppage time with the away support wondering where the added time had come from until referree Mr. Francis ended the contest.

A much needed win, a determined and grity display with good individual performances throughout the team and a win that moves Saints back into Play Off contention, sitting in 7th position ahead of Saturdays home clash with Yate Town.

Brackley Town 1 - 3 Gloucester City

Att 230

Pictures John Willshere

January may have brought waterlogged pitches and floods but it has seen a drought of footballing action as games have been called off. So it was with a spring in the step and high expectation that a crowd of 230 came to a bright, dry and breezy St James Park for the return fixture against a resurgent Gloucester City following the Saints’ 3-1 away win in September. In recent months the Tigers have strung together a ten game unbeaten run that has transformed their season.

A great deal has happened since those balmy, sunny Autumn days and David Oldfield’s side paraded a number of even newer faces for this fixture as Brackley sought to stay the pace with the leading pack. Oldfield brought in on-loan signings defender Craig Richards and striker Jerome Anderson for their first appearances and paired Mike Love and Phil Murphy on the left. Gloucester’s attack was spear-headed by the prolific former Clevedon and Mangotsfield centre-forward Jack Pitcher.

Craig Richards

The home side’s red and white hoops with City’s yellow and black stripes created the illusion of a pyjama party but the game rarely delivered on such excitement. The blustery conditions did not help but there could be no complaint about the pitch that provided a superb surface for passing football even in the depths of a wet English Winter. In truth this was a tepid affair that failed to ignite as both sides returned to competitive football after weeks’ of inaction.

Brackley found themselves in the unaccustomed position of kicking towards the South Bank in the first half and started brightly with several forays that threatened the Gloucester goal. After just 3 minutes Jamie Kearns was adjudged to have fouled the defender as he met a cross, Josh Green was close to connecting with a sixth minute corner fired in by Tom Winters before a Winters shot was wide on 12 minutes.

Jerome Anderson looks to feed Tom Winters during the first half of Saturdays clash

The sole attacking endeavour from the away team in these opening exchanges saw the ball smashed out of the ground at the cricket club end but within a minute City had the lead as Jamie Reid met a deep corner and Richard Knight could only parry into the goal. Gloucester immediately forced a good save by Knight before a flowing move on 18 minutes called for another good stop.

The home side were rocked but on 20 minutes good work by Scott Rickards on the left found Winters whose shot went just wide in Brackley’s best effort of the half. Gloucester enjoyed lots of possession in the Brackley half and came close just before the half hour as Sykes shot just over from a free kick. Brackley rallied as the break neared with a lively spell but rarely threatened the score-line and the half ended with the visitors creating two clear chances as first Allard slid in at the far post but could not meet a long through-ball and on the stroke of half time the dangerous Lee Smith put in a cross that Knight did well to cut out. Going in to the break at 0-1 Brackley had little to look back upon with the visiting keeper Kevin Sawyer not having a single goal attempt to field.

The teams came back unchanged and the home side immediately showed more purpose as the ball slid agonisingly past the post from Rickards within seconds of the kick off. New boy Craig Richards was a force getting forward on the right and an eighth minute cross was well intercepted by the larger than life Sawyer in the City goal. Gloucester’s Jamie Reid was a continual threat to the home defence and a powerful strike on 56 minutes brought Knight into action again. For Brackley Winters’ virtuoso dribble and eventual shot on the hour mark could not beat the efficient Gloucester defending and the frustration only increased as two minutes later good work by Rickards saw a clever cross into the area taken unchallenged by the keeper. There followed a moment for the record books as Sawyer kicked from hand as if for touch and found it beyond even the dugouts – surely a first by any keeper at SJP.

With 25 minutes remaining Phil Murphy gave way to young Northampton Town loan striker Joe Benjamin. Gloucester wide-man Smith connected with a cross from a swift break down the left but the shot went wide before minutes later going down under a challenge only to see his penalty appeal waved away by Whitnash referee Mike Bingham. On the balance of chances the Saints were fortunate to be only one behind but in the 71 st minute found themselves back on level terms. Tom Winters hit a terrific low shot that Sawyer saw but could simply not hold. The ball bobbled away to be knocked back across the goalmouth where debutant Anderson made contact under pressure from two defenders and the ball squeezed over the line.

Debut goal for Jerome Anderson

A goal can change a game and Brackley hearts were suddenly lifted. A flurry of activity saw good work by substitute Benjamin came to nought and then fine play by Anderson set up Rickards but his header was saved and in any case flagged as offside. But Gloucester were not done and a quick attack and smart shot by Sykes regained the lead having been pegged back for just five minutes. Half chances for the home side could not be converted as Winters brought the keeper into action with long range efforts and with three minutes to play Gloucester sealed their win with a third goal. The impressive Smith finished off a good move with a deflected shot leaving Knight helpless.

The Tigers made two changes and for Brackley Guy Hadland replaced Josh Green in added time but this was to be a barren afternoon for the Saints as Gloucester extended their unbeaten stretch to eleven games.

Not even the glorious pinks and yellows of a beautiful January sunset could cheer the home supporters after this frustrating performance.

05/01/08

Brackley Town 6 - 0 Cheshunt

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pictures - John Willshere

In a game in which on loan Joe Benjamin make his first start,

Saints got the win they craved with a fine home victory over Cheshunt. Scot Rikards opened the scoring

and Josh Green doubled the lead by half time(below).

After the break Green set up another Rickards goal

A Tom Winters brace made it 5

Tom celebrates the 5th goal

before a Robbie Beard header !!! completed the scoring

 

01/01/08

Brackley Town 2 - 2 Corby Town

Report by Tim Carroll, pictures by John Willshere

Match Sponsored by M Page Builders

The Steelmen arrived for this New Year’s Day game buoyed by the weekend’s first win in seven league games and hoping to begin the climb away from the lower reaches of the league table. Brackley came into the game frustrated after two defeats where performances against a strong Halesowen side and resurgent Banbury had warranted some return with Andy Caton making his first full appearance at centre forward and with Joe Benjamin and Eric Carpenter debutants on the bench. On a day when struggling Gloucester and Cirencester beat high-flying Hemel Hempstead and Chippenham respectively this game would show again how every team in this division can match every other on the day.

Josh Green heads clear in the first half

A holiday crowd of 288 on a mild and dry afternoon saw Brackley start well with Tom Winters finding space early and Brackley enjoying plentiful possession. On 4 minutes a poor clearance kick from keeper Crane fell to Winters whose pass found Rickards running through on goal but was ajudged to be off-side in the first of a series of decisions given by Bicester referee Mr Coggins that caused growing consternation among spectators as the afternoon wore on. On 12 minutes Andy Caton found himself in acres of space but his low shot was well saved before a good move 3 minutes later saw the final cross too close to the keeper. On 18 minutes Corby mounted a first attack and went ahead through Steven Diggin as the home defence failed to clear a high ball and the striker finished from close range. Within minutes Corby’s Nicell shot close as Brackley looked exposed again down the right.

The game entered a quiet phase before both sides created further chances.

Jamie Kearns denied

On the half hour Winters’ cross had alarm bells ringing as Crane punched clear and Kearns’ shot was well saved before Diggin again threatened with a snapshot from the edge of the penalty area leading to the game’s first corner kick. On 31 minutes Corby’s Wykes headed wide, and Diggin broke through only to shoot over. Meanwhile the home side’s best efforts came through Rickards’ shot straight at the keeper following Winters’ cross and on 40 minutes a superb jinking run by Winters produced a good cross that had to be cleared by the strong central defensive pairing of Bowner and Brown.

Man of the Match Tom Winters

Home debutant Andy Caton shot over in spectacular fashion as the half ended with Corby taking a 0-1 lead into the break.

Brackley resumed the second half with Guy Hadland giving way to Mike Love following injury at the end of the first half. Love slotted into the left back berth with Murphy moving into midfield on his 100 th appearance for the Saints.

Corby were immediately on the attack forcing Knight into action and winning an early corner. Winters went close for Brackley on 5 minutes before a midfield incident that left Corby’s Dominic Hallows requiring treatment after a clash with Jamie Kearns for which he was booked. Corby defender Tom Bowner squared up to Kearns and was fortunate only to be spoken to by the referee having to be restrained by team mates. The combative Corby centre back was involved in further incidents as the game wore on as this episode seemed to prey on him. Keeper Crane also appeared affected.

On 55 minutes Caton was substituted by Benjamin for the home side before the diminutive but sparky Patterson went close for the visitors who then forced two corners in quick succession. Just after the hour mark with Brackley beginning to press forward with more urgency the equaliser came following good play down the right with Rickards forcing the ball into the centre and Kearns bundling the ball into the net for his first goal since joining from Hemel.

Jamie Kearns equalises

If the home supporters had expected Corby to lie down they were to be disappointed as the fellow Northamptonshire side rallied to threaten a second goal through a long range shot on 65 minutes by Wykes and a period of pressure on the home goal. Brackley stormed back with a determined run by Rickards earning successive corner kicks. From the second an unpleasant tussle on the ground involving Bowner and Josh Green brought yellow cards for both and a strong talking to for the goalkeeper who unnecessarily got involved.

In the 72 minute Winters hit a terrific shot from distance that was well saved and at the ensuing corner the keeper had to save sharply from under his crossbar. Brackley were looking the more likely to find the winner and Scott Rickards hit a superb free kick round the wall that brought a good save low down right on the goal-line by Crane. The Corby keeper played well all day. With 15 minutes remaining Corby replaced Scott with Diuk and pressed forward with renewed vigour. Savage was yellow-carded for a foul and from the free-kick Corby won a corner. Knight was called into action to save sharply a deflected shot from the corner before Brackley’s tormentor Diggin struck again. Knight got both hands to his well struck drive from 30 yards but could not prevent the ball looping over the line to give Diggin his second and his side the lead again and a glimpse of a prized three away points. Before the home side could re-join the attack the visitors immediately played centre forward Lynch through only for his shot to go wide. But Brackley were not finished and within a minute Jamie Kearns had notched his second of the game to level the score at 2-2.

Tom Winters shot fiercely and the goalkeeper could not hold as Kearns pounced to bury the ball as it fell loose.

With just 6 minutes plus added time to play Brackley made their third substitution bringing on Harper for Rickards and the crowd was poised for a grandstand finish. This was not to be as Corby defended in determined and physical fashion and neither side was able to create a further significant opportunity despite Joe Benjamin impressing with his running and positional play on his first outing. On the final whistle both sides would leave the field disappointed with a draw yet both teams had shown enough commitment and endeavour to deserve something from the game.

 

 

26/12/07

Banbury United 1 - 0 Brackley Town

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This was not the classic Boxing Day Christmas cracker and a second defeat in five days left Brackley with that “morning after the night before” feeling despite a promising first half performance and a fair share of the few chances in a tight local d