Brackley Town 1-0 Bishop’s Stortford - Vanarama National League North - Tuesday 15 August 2023

A 67th minute goal by Danny Newton broke the St James Park stale-mate as Brackley maintained a strong start to the new season. Promoted Bishop’s Stortford matched the hosts for endeavour in a hard fought and combative game but lacked a cutting edge rarely testing Danny Lewis.

Jordon Crawford’s shot could only be parried by keeper Jack Giddens and Cosmas Matwasa shot wide in Saints’ best chance in the early stages. Riccardo Calder’s mazy run early in the second half brought a fierce shot from Jordon Crawford that was close before Newton struck. Gaz Dean flicked on from a throw in, the ball falling to Newton in space and the striker steered the ball into the net to put Saints ahead.

Within moments the lead could have been doubled as substitute Jimmy Armson’s cross was met by Newton who fired at close range straight at Giddens.

Brackley safely navigated the remaining time including seven minutes of added time to complete another committed performance and record another determined win.

“We went up against a really strong Bishop’s Stortford side and it was a tough game we are happy to have come through,“ Gavin Cowan said. “Danny is disappointed he didn’t get that second goal. He could have put it anywhere and scored and that would have put us out of sight and made for a less nervy ending to the game. I am really pleased, especially considering the injuries and suspensions we have at the moment. I am pleased for the supporters who have come out on a Tuesday evening. It is great to get the win for them.”

Brackley Town: Lewis, Carline, Calder, Murombedzi, Gudger, Dean, Bates (Armson 61), Newton, Matwasa, Crawford (Lyttle 81), O’Sullivan. Subs unused: Worby, Lilly.

Bishop’s Stortford: Giddens, Haines, Morrell, Shogbeni (Henshaw 46), Foxley (Godfrinne 74), Olufemi, Sykes, Howard, Charles, Regis (Ogunwamide 58), Peters. Subs unused: Thomas, Walker.

Referee: Harry Jones Assistants: Simon Kavanagh and Joe Larkin

Attendance: 608

PIC BY: Pete Keen.