Banbury United travel to Melksham Town in the Emirates FA Cup Second Round Qualifying this Saturday afternoon, September 14th kick off 3pm, as Simon Hollyhead’s side looks to continue its Cup run. 

A convincing 2-0 victory over Dorchester Town in the first round led to United’s progression into the second stage of qualifying, with goals from captain Yaw Ofosu, and George Ball. 

An unbeaten run of four matches across league and cup sadly came to an end on Tuesday night, when the Puritans lost 1-0 to Halesowen. But, such is the growing confidence of this new set-up, that the result of what was an evenly fought match will be seen as a blip in a long-term project to uplift Banbury United’s fortunes and status as North Oxfordshire’s premier football club.

At the time of writing, Banbury United sit seventh (or joint third with three other clubs on points) in the Pitching In Southern League Premier Central, just three points behind leaders, Stamford. Hollyhead’s mantra of recruiting players based on their character appears to be resulting in a highly motivated squad, playing for each other and developing a great connection with the fans – evident with steadily increasing crowds at each match. 

Saturday’s FA Cup tie will be the first-ever meeting between Banbury United and Melksham Town. This will be Melksham’s 50th game in the Second Round Qualifying stage of the Emirates FA Cup, including replays. 

The first time Banbury reached the Second Round Qualifying stage of the competition was back in 1938/39. The Puritans got the better of Oxford City, Morris Motors and Slough in the earlier rounds, but would go out to Hayes. 

United’s largest margin of victory in Second Round Qualifying was as recent as 2016/2017, where they would comfortably beat Cirencester Town on the road, in a 6-1 win. Of the previous 49 games in Second Round Qualifying, Banbury have won 18, lost 22 and drawn 9.

From all at Oxfordshire FA, best of luck to the Puritans in this weekend's cup tie.