The Puritans last faced Bracknell Town in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round back in October 2022, when the Robins ended our hopes of reaching the First Round Proper for a third consecutive season. That tie, played in front of 657 fans, with a strong Banbury following. The match saw Bracknell take an early lead after just nine minutes, when Max Herbert scored directly from an in-swinging corner.

Banbury responded just before the break as Stefan Spasov, on his debut, headed home his first goal for the club to level the scores and send the travelling supporters wild. However, Bracknell regained their advantage shortly after half-time through Baylis, once again assisted by Herbert’s corner, and held on for the win.

Spasov with his headed equaliser against Bracknell Town.

Here’s hoping there’s no repeat of that result this time around.

Form Guide

Banbury United come into this FA Trophy tie looking to bounce back after two consecutive league defeats, conceding five goals without reply. Following our FA Cup exit in the Fourth Qualifying Round, this fixture offers a chance for Kelvin Langmead’s side to reset and rediscover their rhythm.

Our hosts, Bracknell Town, are enduring a difficult start to their campaign. Rock bottom of their league with just one win from twelve games, the Robins are winless in their last five.

Their recent defeat was a heavy blow to Gosport, losing the game 6-1.

New manager Matthew Saunders has not shied away from addressing his side’s struggles, a recent viral interview saw him call out senior players and a lack of professionalism within the squad. Since then, there have been departures and new arrivals as he looks to turn things around.

Saunders will be hoping a FA Trophy run can lift spirits and spark a turnaround in form, while Banbury will see this as an opportunity to get back to winning ways.