Banbury United to take on League One and League Two neighbours as pre-season schedule develops

Banbury United’s pre-season schedule is quickly expanding, with fixtures against League One and League Two oppositions now confirmed.

The Puritans have announced five games so far, with two more expected to come to fill in gaps in mid-July and the start of August.

Banbury United boss Kelvin Langmead will take on his former club Northampton Town during pre-season. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)

placeholder image — Banbury United boss Kelvin Langmead will take on his former club Northampton Town during pre-season. (Photo by Pete Norton/Getty Images)

It’s a season of transition for Banbury as Kelvin Langmead takes on his second campaign in charge, eager to build a squad capable of shifting up the Southern League Premier Central standings.

The Puritans, who have finished 12th in each of their last two seasons, have retained eight players so far and talks are currently ongoing over potential new signings to join the squad.

Supporters will have several opportunities to see the current crop, a host of new signings and even some trialists at pre-season matches.

The schedule begins with a trip to Premier League Division One Midlands side Coventry United on Saturday, July 11. The game will kick off at 3pm at the Nick Newbold Stadium.

There’s then the first home match of pre-season, as local side Easington Sports visit the Spencer Stadium for the Ron Thomas Cup at 7.45pm on Tuesday, July 14.

Another, yet-to-be-announced game is expected to be pencilled in for Saturday, July 18 against an opponent from either step two, three or four.

On Tuesday, July 21 is when things truly ramp up, as Banbury host a Northampton Town XI, kicking off at 7.45pm.

Although it’s highly unlikely to be the Cobblers’ strongest team fielded, it’s still a game against League Two opposition and a great test for the Puritans.

Following the Northampton clash, Banbury will head away to Northern Premier League side AFC Rushden & Diamonds at 7.45pm on Friday, July 24.

The last of the confirmed games is the biggest of the bunch, with the Puritans set to host an XI from League One side MK Dons, at 7.45pm on Tuesday, July 28.

It’s improbable that MK will name their strongest side, however it’s another challenge for Langmead’s men to dig their teeth into.

Last but not least, it’s understood that Banbury have been searching for one last pre-season game, at home on Saturday, August 1.