Banbury United produced a determined defensive performance to earn a valuable point away to third-placed Bromsgrove Sporting, recovering from a second-half setback to secure a deserved draw.

Following the previous game at Peterborough Sports, where United finished with just one recognised defender on the pitch, Kelvin and Craig faced a challenging selection task ahead of the trip. Alex Prosser delivered an impressive performance at centre-half, while Harrison Mole, Oran Jackson and, later, Finn Howell all contributed to a resolute defensive display. Josh Cavallo also returned from injury to complete the first half.

Bromsgrove threatened early on, with former Banbury player Josh Dugmore sending in a cross in the seventh minute that Lamin Barrow headed over. Dugmore then tried his luck himself seven minutes later, but his effort went wide.

Another former Puritan, Jak Hickman, combined with Chris Hussey in the 29th minute, only for Hussey to fire over the crossbar. The Bromsgrove captain went closer seven minutes later, but Jack Harding dealt well with his effort. Harding’s clearance sparked a Banbury attack, with Ben Nash sending his attempt over the bar.

In the 38th minute, Kieron Freeman appeared to have found the net for the hosts, but the referee had already blown for a foul and the goal was ruled out. Both defences continued to limit clear-cut opportunities, and the sides went into the interval level at 0–0.

AJ George threatened four minutes after the restart, but Bromsgrove took the lead in the 52nd minute. Hussey delivered an excellent cross into the area, where Jamille Matt headed home from close range, leaving Harding with no chance.

Six minutes later, Hussey delivered a corner that Hayden Reeves headed over as the hosts looked to extend their advantage. Banbury remained organised and continued to compete, refusing to let the game get away from them.

Their persistence was rewarded in the 68th minute. Oran Jackson produced an excellent finish from 16 yards, curling the ball around the defence and into the corner of the net to leave veteran goalkeeper Tony Breeden with no chance.

Bromsgrove pushed for a winner, with Breeden spending increasing amounts of time outside his penalty area as the hosts pressed forward. However, Banbury held firm through the closing stages to take a point home after an impressive display of resilience and determination.

Bromsgrove Sporting: Tony Breeden, Josh Dugmore, Chris Hussey (captain), Oliver Harrison, Hayden Reeves, Joe Doyle-Charles, Jamille Matt, Kieron Freeman (Billy Shaw, 62), Dan Trickett-Smith (Simeon Maye, 62), Lamin Barrow (Jake Jervis, 70), Jak Hickman (Brad Bood, 70).

Substitute not used: Dale Eve.

Banbury United: Jack Harding, Harrison Mole, Josh Cavallo (Finn Howell, 46), Josh Smile, Alex Prosser (captain), Oran Jackson, AJ George, Aaron McCreadie, Gus Sanches (Levi Steele), Joel Anker, Ben Nash.

Substitutes not used: Emil Lulchev, Seb Kola.

Attendance: 910