Brackley Town 2-1 Boston United - Vanarama National League North - Saturday 2nd Dec 2023

Separated by one point before the game, Brackley and Boston produced a fine game in challenging and freezing conditions that saw Saints hold on to win a game in which they could have been out of sight by the break. The win moves Gavin Cowan’s side into fourth place on a day when only three National League North games survived the freeze.

Zak Lilly’s fine first-time effort put Saints ahead on 10 minutes before Morgan Roberts doubled the lead five minutes later, another clinical finish from the edge of the penalty area having been set up by Dom McHale.

Danny Newton’s header was parried with Alex Gudger close by as the ball found only the post as Boston lived dangerously. Riccardo Calder’s left-wing run and early cross was headed just over by Roberts and Calder’s shot from a wide position needed Gregory’s finger tip save to avert another goal.

But goals change games and the visitors nicked a goal back in first half added time, Brad Nicholson firing in at the back post to set up a spirited Boston second half performance that had the home side pegged back for long spells.

The Pilgrims dominated possession putting Saints under sustained pressure. Keaton Ward’s shot brought a save from Danny Lewis and a 35 yard speculative effort as the fog descended needed the careful attentions of Lewis. The Brackley keeper could only push away Ward’s shot and in added time former Brackley midfielder Jordan Richards poked wide after a scramble as Boston sought the equaliser.

Brackley had chances of their own to restore the two goal lead going closest through Newton on two occasions and Alex Gudger whose shot was deflected away.

“First half we were dominant and we created chances but they got a goal on half-time that set up the second half,” Cowan said. “They had a lot of possession second half but Danny [Lewis] didn’t have many saves to make. A win is a win and we did it really well today.”

Brackley Town: Lewis; Lilly, Gudger, Dean; Calder, Matwasa (Lyttle 72), Murombedzi, McHale (Armson 68), O’Sullivan; Roberts (Caline 90), Newton. Subs unused: Turner, Love.

Boston United: Gregory, Nicholson, Bostwick, Leak, Ward, Knowles, Hazel, Sotona, Richards, Mills (Smart 59), Hill. Subs unused: Sephton, Martin, Essien, Lovelace.

Referee: D Jones

Attendance: 641