Brackley Town 0-2 Curzon Ashton Vanarama National League North - Saturday 23rd Sept 2023

Brackley came back down to earth with a bump as the visitors deservedly won an intriguing game with two first-half goals and a well-executed game plan to leapfrog above Saints in the league table.

A fifth-minute penalty set Curzon on their way neatly converted by captain Craig Mahon.

Danny Newton was close to levelling for Saints before a defensive error on 28 minutes led to a doubling of the lead as Jimmy Spencer took full advantage rounding keeper Danny Lewis and firing in.

The Nash struck the post but Brackley finished the half strongly to give the home crowd hope of a second half come-back. But despite enjoying a lot of possession Gavin Cowan’s side rarely threatened Cam Mason’s goal.

Newton’s 52nd minute headed goal was ruled out for off-side and from there the home side struggled to break down Curzon’s solid defence and determined pressing. Zak Lilly came closest with a 40 yard pile driver narrowly wide. Meanwhile Curzon threatened to grab a third goal as George Carline headed off the line from a corner kick and Lewis saved with his legs from Jamie Allen after a break-away.

Brackley created some late momentum and half chances but never came to terms with Curzon’s organised and resolute approach and spirited play getting men behind the ball. The win maintains Curzon’s unbeaten away record and fine start to the season.

“Clearly it is disappointing today but Curzon were well worth the win, “Cowan said. “We did a lot of pressing and probing and were looking for the perfect moment so it was a frustrating day. We lacked a bit of energy today after a big week. Something that was pleasing today was the response from fans at the end who, despite their disappointment, provided a lift for the players so thanks to the fans for that, it is appreciated.”

Brackley Town: Lewis, Lilly, Carline, Calder (Roberts 64), Murombedzi, O’Sullivan (Lyttle 55), Bates (Armson 59), Matwasa, McHale, Turner, Newton. Subs unused: Crawford, Gudger.

Curzon Ashton: Mason, Richards (Mols 87), Poscha, Kenyon, Matthews, Mahon, Barton, Sinclair, Allen (Walker 87), Spencer, Waring. Subs unused: Taylor, Edmundson, Lopes.

Referee: Helen Conley Assistants: Joe Larkin and Craig Thompson

Attendance: 671