We take a look at everything you need to know ahead of the first game of the new National League North campaign at The Banbury Plant Hire Community Stadium.
Banbury United v Spennymoor Town
National League North
Saturday 5th August 2023, 3pm
The Banbury Plant Hire Community Stadium
The Opposition
Banbury United enjoyed a solid enough first season at National League North level during 2022/23 having been promoted as champions in the previous campaign.
The Oxfordshire outfit carried some real momentum into the start of the year and emerged as potential dark horses for a play-off challenge in the opening months.
However, as injuries began to bite, The Puritans slipped off the pace and down the table to end up finishing in 17th spot during their debut campaign in the division.
Andy Whing resigned from his post after three years in charge at the end of the season and now Banbury embark on a new regime with former Oxford City and Hemel Hempstead manager Mark Jones installed in the hotseat for 2023/24.
Previous Meeting
Rob Ramshaw scored a dramatic late winner when Moors made the trip to The Banbury Plant Hire Community Stadium on the penultimate weekend of last season.
The near post header from a left-wing corner found the net to set off scenes of wild celebrations among players and fans behind the goal as Moors kept alive their hopes of snatching a play-off place.
Team News
Jamie Chandler should have the majority of his available for selection ahead of the season opener in Oxfordshire this weekend.
Match Officials
Matthew Jackson will be the man in the middle for this weekend’s National League North encounter, and he will be assisted by James Welsh and Lewis Mountain.
Tickets
Moors fans are advised to buy tickets in advance online where possible but there will also be a function to buy by cash or card on the turnstiles at Banbury ahead of kick-off.
Click here for full ticket information.
Live Commentary
Mark Simpson and Billy Shackleton will be on-air at The Banbury Plant Hire Community Stadium from 2.50pm on Saturday to deliver full live commentary of the game.
We’re continuing our link-up with Durham OnAir which means we can provide supporters with live coverage from every game, both home and away.
Click here for more information on accessing the live commentary.
Betting Odds
Moors have been installed as 7/5 favourites to collect three points on Saturday, while hosts Banbury United are rated a 13/8 shot for victory and the draw is priced up at 23/10.
