Banbury United suffered a 3–0 home defeat to Worcester City in a fixture billed as a six-pointer, with the visitors taking control as the match progressed.

United were without both captains and several recognised centre-halves through injury and suspension, leaving their defensive organisation under pressure. However, the hosts created the first opportunity of the evening in the eighth minute, when Gus Sanches fired from 15 yards, narrowly missing the far post.

Worcester gradually grew into the game and won their first corner in the 22nd minute, which Banbury managed to clear. Four minutes later, another corner from the left gave City the breakthrough. Former Puritan Charlie Wise, now Worcester captain, rose above the defence to head home.

The visitors continued to look the more threatening side as the first half progressed, but some wasteful finishing meant Banbury reached the interval only one goal behind.

Worcester extended their lead just four minutes into the second half, when Aaron Bishop found the net to make it 2–0. Banbury responded by introducing Connor Ferguson, who appeared to be returning to full fitness, but the overall pattern of the match remained largely unchanged. Worcester continued to control proceedings, while United spent much of the time defending in their own half.

The visitors added a third in the 69th minute. Banbury were unable to deal with a corner, allowing central defender Duncan Idehen to head home and put the result beyond doubt.

United made further changes as they sought a response, but Worcester saw out the match to take all three points.

Banbury United: Jack Harding, Harrison Mole, Tolu Ikuyinminu, Aaron McCreadie, Oran Jackson, Finn Howell, AJ George, Ben Nash (Josh Cavallo, 70), Levi Steele (captain), Joel Anker (Seb Kola, 84), Gus Sanches (Connor Ferguson, 53).

Substitute not used: Emil Lulchev.

Worcester City: Cristiano Dzialuk, Josh Ezewele, Josh Taroni (Mitchell Roberts, 84), Ryan Wollacott (Ryan McLean, 79), Duncan Idehen, Charlie Wise (captain), Nathan Hayward, Luke Rowe, Aaron Bishop (Zachary Guinan, 72), Harry Burns (Matthew Richards, 75), Liam Lockett (Brandon Smalley, 82).

Attendance: 469