Following recent defensive concerns, United showed signs of improvement and established early control in midfield. James Alabi was selected to lead the line, supported by wide players Connor Ferguson and Joel Anker.

The opening stages saw both sides adopt a cautious approach, with limited chances in the first 20 minutes. Banbury, however, were the more progressive going forward. Luke Stokoe had the game’s first opportunities, with a shot deflected behind for a corner in the 14th minute, before striking the side netting six minutes later. Bishop’s Stortford effectively limited Ferguson’s influence, often committing two players to contain him.

Banbury’s pressure was rewarded shortly before half-time. In the 43rd minute, following a corner on the right, Alex Worley delivered a powerful, curling left-footed effort that found the top corner, giving the hosts a deserved lead.

Bishop’s Stortford responded positively after the interval and equalised in the 54th minute. A well-worked move down the right resulted in an accurate cross, allowing Frank Norris to finish from close range and bring the sides level.

Banbury reacted well and were handed a significant opportunity to regain the lead just four minutes later. Joel Anker was fouled inside the penalty area, leading to a straight red card for Charlie Johnson for serious foul play. However, the resulting penalty was saved by Adam Hayton, who denied Ferguson from the spot, and the rebound was subsequently missed.

Despite playing with a numerical advantage for over half an hour, Banbury were unable to find a winner. Chris Wreh, introduced from the bench, came close on a couple of occasions, while Jaden Ogwuazor made a crucial goal-line clearance in the 85th minute. At the other end, Bishop’s Stortford also threatened, striking the crossbar from a free-kick in the 80th minute.

Ultimately, both sides had chances to secure all three points, but the match finished level.

Banbury United: Jack Harding; Keegan Bloom, Alex Worley, Aaron McCreadie, Yaw Ofosu (captain) (Nico Jones 90+9); Josh Flanagan, Connor Ferguson, Peter Abimbola; James Alabi (Chris Wreh 76), Luke Stokoe, Joel Anker (Michael Brammeld 60).
Unused substitutes: Gedeon Okito, Oskar Wahlen.

Bishop’s Stortford: Adam Hayton; Dempsey Crace, Leon Davies (Jaden Ogwuazor 35), Cole Dasilva, Jake Thompson (captain); Frank Norris (Aaron Greene 72), Bradley Russell, Fabio Virciglio (Obidinma Onyeagwara 65); Jack Smith, Erin Amu, Charlie Johnson.
Unused substitute: Mark Haines.