Saturday afternoon sees Banbury United return to the Spencer Stadium, powered by Egg, aiming to respond after back-to-back away defeats against Quorn and Halesowen.

The Puritans suffered a disappointing 3–0 loss at Halesowen Town on Tuesday night, a result that stalled their push towards the play-off places. Despite this setback, United remain well in contention, currently sitting 10th and just six points behind fifth place, with two games in hand.

Home form, however, continues to be a major source of encouragement. Banbury are unbeaten in their last 10 league matches at the Spencer Stadium, powered by Egg, and have built their success on a strong defensive foundation, conceding just two goals in their last nine home games. With four of their remaining nine fixtures at home, it’s form that could prove pivotal in the closing stages of the season.

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The Blues

Bishop’s Stortford arrive in 14th place, six points behind Banbury. Managed by Steve Castle, The Blues are in their second season in the Southern League Premier Division Central, having finished 15th last term.

They come into this fixture on the back of a 2–0 home victory over Alvechurch, but their recent form has been inconsistent. Over their last 12 matches, they have collected just 11 points.

Away from home, Bishop’s Stortford have recorded four wins, five draws, and seven defeats, accumulating 17 points on the road. Their last away victory came in early January against A.F.C. Sudbury.

One to watch for the visitors is top scorer Cole Dasilva, who has netted 11 goals this season.

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Previous Meetings

Since 2017, these sides have met seven times. Banbury hold the advantage with three wins, while Bishop’s Stortford have just one victory, with the remaining three encounters ending in draws.

Earlier this season, Banbury claimed an emphatic 4–1 win in Hertfordshire, with a hat-trick from Connor Ferguson and a goal from Chris Wreh. Dasilva scored the consolation for the hosts.

Notably, Bishop’s Stortford are yet to win in three visits to North Oxfordshire—a record Banbury will be determined to maintain.

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Match Preview written by Will Hutchinson