Banbury United’s typically reliable defensive performances have faltered in recent away fixtures, with five goals conceded across the last two matches—several of which will be viewed as avoidable.

Halesowen Town made a fast start, taking the lead in the 7th minute. Ben Cassidy and Jason Cowley combined effectively on the right to beat Alex Worley and deliver a cross into the box. Jordan Ponticelli’s initial effort was cleared for a corner, but from the resulting set piece, taken by Jim Kellermann, Ponticelli found space to head home unmarked and open the scoring.

Banbury responded well and nearly equalised in the 17th minute when Connor Ferguson forced a strong save from goalkeeper Daniel Platt. United then enjoyed a promising spell of possession and appeared the more likely side to score.

However, against the run of play, Halesowen doubled their advantage in first-half stoppage time. Jack Harding was dispossessed, allowing Ponticelli to capitalise and tap into an unguarded net, giving the hosts a commanding lead at the break.

The second half saw Halesowen take control of the game, limiting Banbury’s attacking threat. The home side extended their lead in the 53rd minute when Milan Butterfield converted from close range to make it 3–0 and effectively secure the points.

Halesowen continued to dictate proceedings, and despite their dominance, were unable to add further goals. Banbury struggled to create clear opportunities, with Platt largely untested for much of the second half.

Overall, it was a comfortable and controlled performance from Halesowen Town, while Banbury United will look to address their recent defensive lapses.

Halesowen Town: Dan Platt; Ben Cassidy, Josh Smale (captain), Ryan Wollacott, Mitchell Roberts (Rob Evans 90+2); Todd Parker, Jason Cowley (Fin Holmes 88), Milan Butterfield, Jim Kellermann (Kyle Finn 82); Jordan Ponticelli, Reece Mitchell.
Unused substitutes: Jak Hickman, Ty Barnett.

Banbury United: Jack Harding (captain); Keegan Bloom, Alex Worley, Aaron McCreadie, Josh Flanagan; Nico Jones, Connor Ferguson, Alex Prosser; Chris Wreh (James Alabi 46), Luke Stokoe (Peter Abimbola 66), Joel Anker (Michael Brammeld 71).
Unused substitutes: Gedeo Okito, Oskar Wahlen.