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The Puritans are Champions
02/04/2022
Banbury United have won the Southern League Premiere Division Central
History has been made! Banbury United are champions of the Southern League Premiere Division Central.
With four games still left to play in the season, after today’s results it has become impossible for any other team to catch-up with the Puritans points total. Champagne corks popped as the large crowd soaked up the atmosphere, with a huge attendance of 1,835 recorded at Station Approach.
The final score during Saturday’s game saw Banbury draw 1-1 with mid-table Tamworth, taking Banbury’s points total to 90. Second placed Coalville Town failed to beat Hednesford Town in a game that ended goalless. The result left Coalville needing at least 22 points to overtake Banbury, but with just 18 points available during the remaining 6 games.
After the game Coalville Town tweeted: “Congratulations to Banbury United FC who have won the league today, very well deserved.”
During Banbury’s game against Tamworth the visitors took an early lead on the 13th minute. Banbury sought the equaliser but Tamworth’s strong defence left them leading the game at Half Time. In the second half it was Jack Stevens that gave the Puritans the equaliser on the 63rd minute.
As the game reached extra time news reached the ground of Tamworth’s result, sealing Banbury’s position as league champions. As fans began to celebrate Banbury were awarded a penalty, but an impressive save by the Tamworth keeper stopped Giorgio Rasulo’s shot finding the back of the net.
After the game manager Andy Whing said: “It’s a big thing for the town, the football club and a massive thing for the community.
“When I first joined here everyone said it’s a bit of a sleeping giant and we should be pushing up into the higher echelons. We’ve got a fantastic team and got ourselves into the National League, which is step 2, and unbelievable.
“I hope everyone enjoys today. Thank you for everyone’s hard work and support since I’ve been at the football club.”
Messages of congratulations came in from around the area. Banbury Cricket Club tweeted to say: “Great achievement! Congratulations from everyone at the club!”
Banbury Town Mayor Shaida Hussain sent her congratulations and Easington Sports FC described the news as “a fantastic achievement”.
Published: by Banbury FM Newsteam