FC United suffer late defeat at Brackley Town on last day of season

FC United’s season came to an end with a late 1-0 defeat at promotion chasing Brackley Town on Saturday afternoon, the already relegated Reds to second from bottom in the Vanarama National League North.

With nearest rivals Ashton United drawing 1-1 at home to Altrincham, the Robins leapfrogged FC United but both clubs were a long way short of safety and fourth from bottom Guiseley, who avoided the drop into the Evo-Stik Northern Premier Division comfortably.


In truth the game was a bit of a damp squib, it had all the makings of an end of season game for FC whereas Brackley, who needed a win to secure 3rd place, struggled at time to make their possession count.

The home side did start the brighter of the teams, Connor Hall heading over from a corner. Kurt Willoughby came close at the other end with a 25 yard free kick that flew just over the bar. In fact, the only shot on target in the half was a weak Louis Mayers effort straight at keeper Danny Lewis.

The second half continued in the same vein with Brackley having the bulk of the ball but not making the advantage count. Adam Walker fired at Andy Fisher and also saw a shot just wide. Again, it was FC that had the best chance when Willoughby was played, in, his shot was well saved by Lewis.

On 74 minutes, the best chance of the game fell to Lee Ndlovu who worked himself some space, had the ball on his left foot but for some reason chose to use his right, toeing the ball horribly and the shot was closer to the corner flag than the goal. With 10 minutes to go, Ndlovu again came close but his shot hit the side netting.

With four minutes on the clock, the home side took the points when a free kick was played into the FC box. It looked like Fisher may have been fouled as he rose for the ball, but nothing was given, the ball was worked back into the box and sub Daniel Nti headed into the empty net to win the points for The Saints and secure 3rd place.

As for FC, the first relegation in the clubs history gives Neil Reynolds the chance to regroup and rebuild and gives the fans the chance to reacquaint themselves with some old friends in the Evo Stik.

Man of the Match- For the second Saturday running, Sam Baird put in a great performance at the back to show yet again what a asset he could well be to the club in the future.

Report: Steven Wood