In very hot conditions, Banbury had an early chance to go in front when Courtney Herbert was put through on the right but his shot, when in a good position, was screwed just wide of the far post. However it would be Wellingborough Town who were to take an early lead – the goal coming in the 9th minute from a spot-kick following a foul in the penalty area.

Banbury initially responded well to this set-back and in the 13th minute some excellent build up play presented Herbert with a shooting opportunity and the former Northampton Football League player brought out a good save from the visiting goalkeeper. However for the rest of the half, Banbury struggled to penetrate the Wellingborough defence and create decent chances.

Twenty minutes into the second half, it needed an excellent save by Joe Murrell from a superbly struck volley on the edge of the area to keep the score at 1-0. The rest of the second half saw the visitors continue to have the better of the chances and they made it 2-0 in the 76th minute.

Banbury came closest to scoring in the last minute of the game when a mini scramble just outside the six yard box eventually fell kindly to the grateful visiting custodian.

Though Wellingborough’s second goal was down to a mix up in the home defence, there was no question that the visitors deserved the win. The Doughboys looked a very good side and must fancy their chances of a good season in the UCL.

As for Banbury, though they at times passed the ball around well on the deck, it is probably fair to say that manager Ady Fuller is sure to be looking for an improvement in performances before the season kicks off in two weeks time!

Banbury United: Andy Kemp (Joe Murrell 61), David Staff, Ben Polk, Tommy Kinch (Lewis Hallford 46), Ross Oulton (Aaron Daniels 46), Liam Dolman, Lewis Travers (Joe Coleman 46), Justin Dowling (Troy Johnson 46), Courtney Herbert (Ollie Stanbridge 25), Glenn Walker, Ryan Thompson.

Photo Album from game now added to website:

https://www.pitchero.com/clubs/banburyunitedfootballclub/photos/wellingborough-town-home-july-152944.html

Photo above features Glenn Walker whilst below Ryan Thompson