Match Report: JME Academy 1–2 Banbury United Academy

Wednesday 8th October 2025

After picking up just one point from their opening three league games, Banbury United Academy headed into Wednesday’s fixture with a point to prove against league leaders JME Academy — a side unbeaten so far this season.

With changes made to the starting line-up and a more structured tactical approach, Banbury began brightly. The home side created a couple of early half-chances, but goalkeeper Dominik produced two smart saves to keep them at bay.

As the half went on, Banbury grew in confidence and began to create the better opportunities going into the break. The first half ended goalless, but the visitors were beginning to show real signs of promise.

Early in the second half, Lewis Middleton went close with a shot that narrowly missed the target, and Banbury continued to build momentum. In the 55th minute, Lewis drove powerfully through the JME defence before squaring the ball to Mo, who calmly slotted home to make it 1–0.

Just five minutes later, Middleton was on the scoresheet himself, breaking through once again and guiding the ball home with precision from just inside the box to double Banbury’s lead.

Banbury were flying and almost made it three shortly after — a long-range lob from Lewis struck the post, rebounding to Mo, whose follow-up effort cannoned off the opposite upright.

JME regained some control in the final stages, and with seven minutes remaining, they pulled one back after a cross from the right was converted inside the area. The hosts thought they had equalised late on, but the assistant referee’s flag ruled the goal out for offside.

In the closing moments, Banbury showed resilience and determination to hold on — with Liam Goddard and Callum Green making crucial blocks, and Dominik producing more excellent saves to preserve the lead.

A hard-fought and fully deserved 2–1 victory for Banbury United Academy, and a performance that can set the tone for the rest of the season.

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Manager’s Comments – Mike Ford:

“I’m really proud of the lads today. We asked them to be more organised, more disciplined, and to believe in what we’re trying to build — and they did exactly that.

The effort, commitment, and quality we showed against an unbeaten side was outstanding. It’s a result that was earned through hard work and togetherness, and hopefully, this gives us the belief and momentum to push on for the rest of the season.”

Banbury United Football Club

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