The game started with both teams feeling each other out, with Banbury displaying early dominance in possession. Kettering had a few promising moments, but Banbury’s defense stood strong, denying their attacking threats.

The breakthrough came in the 19th minute when a poor Kettering clearance landed at the feet of Harry Reilly just outside the box. Without hesitation, Reilly unleashed a thunderous strike into the bottom right corner, sending the home fans into raptures. It was a goal worthy of winning any match, and Banbury took control of proceedings from that moment.

Banbury nearly doubled their lead in the 24th minute when Reilly managed to lob the onrushing Kettering goalkeeper, only for a defender to clear the ball off the line at the last moment. The Puritans continued to press, with Tim King going close with a back-heel flick in the 43rd minute, but Kettering’s goalkeeper stood firm.

Kettering emerged from halftime with renewed urgency, but Banbury’s disciplined backline, led by Yaw Ofosu and Jack Harding in goal, remained solid. Harding was called into action early in the second half, comfortably saving a long-range effort.

The match became more physical, with George Ball and Forsyth both receiving yellow cards as tensions rose. Kettering pushed for an equalizer, but Banbury’s defensive resilience shone through. In the 83rd minute, the Puritans showcased some unbelievable last-ditch defending to preserve their narrow lead.

As the game entered its final stages, Banbury almost sealed it through a well-delivered freekick by Prosser in the 87th minute, but Gordon couldn't get a clean connection. Despite a late push from Kettering, Banbury held on to secure a vital three points.

Banbury United :- Jack Harding, Harry Reilly (Nico Jones, 78 mins.), Gedeon Okito, Alex Prosser, Yaw Ofosu (captain), Tai Flemming, George Forsyth, Connor Ferguson, Jaanai Gordon, Timothy King (George Ball, 63 mins.), Dan Jarvis (Connor Stanley, 71 mins.). Subs (not used): Archie Hollyhead, Joel Odei-Larbi

Kettering Town :- Dan Jezeph, Ben Hart, Aaron Powell, Connor Johnson (captain), Alex Gudger, Tyree Wilson (Terell Pennant, 46 mins.), Marvin Sordell, Gary Stohrer (Luca Miller, 59 mins.), Isiah Noel-Williams, Jonathan Edwards (Nile Ranger, 75 mins.), Kai Fifield (Wes York, 54 mins.). Subs (not used): Lewis White