Ford in reflective mood ahead of play-off clash

Mike Ford will be looking to take the next step to crowning a glorious first season as manager of Banbury United.
Banbury United's Mark Bell takes on Taunton Town's Dale Evans and Craig Veal at Spencer StadiumBanbury United's Mark Bell takes on Taunton Town's Dale Evans and Craig Veal at Spencer Stadium
Banbury United's Mark Bell takes on Taunton Town's Dale Evans and Craig Veal at Spencer Stadium

The Puritans entertain Winchester City in Tuesday’s Evo-Stik Southern League play-off semi-final and, if they get through, Ford will be looking to finish the job in Monday’s final against either Taunton Town or Swindon Supermarine.

Ford said: “The club had not been doing great for several years. I had a year out of football and was very excited but it felt like I was stepping into the unknown.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“Initially it was a slow process and with the squad I had I thought we might be a mid-table team. But when a team starts to get momentum good players want to be a part of it and want to join the club. I signed George Nash and Charlie Wise at the right times, then Michael Hopkins later in the season.

“The whole thing has gathered momentum and in all my time as a manager, this is the most points, most goals and least goals conceded of any team I’ve been in charge of. The players have been absolutely immense.

“If we get through and it is Taunton in the final, they’ve got to come back here to a place where they’ve just lost.”