12th January 2014 home result 3-1 half time 1-1
Scorers for CM Cameron Craig Jim Whitelock Jack Hitchen
The pitch was just about playable following the recent rain and the morning frost but it made it difficult to play any sort of decent football
The game began with Cumnor playing against the wind and up the slight slope. It was a tight first minutes with both teams struggling to get accustomed to the conditions. Banbury created the more of the chances and were rewarded with a goal after 25 minutes when their No 8 John Marron picked up the ball in midfield and ran at Cumnor's defence. He unleashed a shot for 20 yards out and the ball flew inside the left post giving Kane no chance.
Cumnor strived for the equaliser but Banbury were dangerous on the break with Marron a constant threat.
The equaliser arrived after 40 minutes when Cameron Craig scored his first of the season with a strong run through the left of midfield. His shot was partially saved by their keeper, Aaron McClachan, but it bobbled over the line for a goal.
This meant the half finished 1-1
Pete's half time talk encouraged the players to battle it out reminding them that next half they were playing with the wind and so should be able to tale advantage.
In the second half the conditions worsened as the pitch cut up and it became a battle to control the ball.
Robbie Catling was tripped in the penalty area in the 58th minute and Cumnor were awarded a penalty. There was some confusion who was to take the penalty as the natural contenders were being rested so Jim Whitelock stepped up. He coolly slotted it low to the right passed the outstretched keeper's arms giving him his first goal of the season.
Banbury's heads dropped after this and Cumnor began to take control. An error by their keeper gave an opportunistic third goal to Cumnor for Jack Hitchen in the 70th minute.
Cumnor could have added to the lead with Robbie, Mitchell and Jack Bowler going close. Banbury's frustration got worse and lead to Marron being sent off in the 87th minute for abuse to the referee.
It was a good win for Cumnor in atrocious conditions against a much improved Banbury side. The whole team played well but man of the match has to go to Ben Upjohn who practically controlled the midfield.