Old Stamfield 2 vs 1 Stratford F.C.

Old Stamfield welcomed Stratford F.C. to Banbury on 1st February 2026 for a keenly contested league fixture that kicked off at 4:30pm. In front of a crowd of 22,890, the home side emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline after 90 minutes plus added time, securing all three points in a match that saw tactical substitutions, disciplinary moments, and a late flurry of action.

Old Stamfield lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, deploying Alex Dos Santos in goal. The defensive line featured Rory Stride at right back, with Oscar Adams and Eduardo Fuenzalida partnering centrally, and Florian Sarosi covering the left flank. In midfield, Sam Miller and Dominic Wilkinson operated as the two holding central midfielders, tasked with both defensive duties and linking play. Ahead of them, the attacking trio consisted of Sam Jones on the right wing, Fredrik Wirz in the central attacking midfield role, and Eduardo Camavinga on the left. Leading the line was striker Hugo Lamy, expected to spearhead the attack and convert chances created by the midfielders. The substitutes named for Old Stamfield were Antoine Todibo, William Wilngrove, Jamie Johnson, Ben Spencer, and Emyll Leclerc.

The match began with Old Stamfield looking to impose their rhythm through midfield control and wide attacking play. However, the first significant event came early when Oscar Adams was forced off injured in the 27th minute, replaced by Antoine Todibo, who slotted into central defence. This early disruption tested Old Stamfield’s defensive resilience.

As the first half progressed, the game grew increasingly physical. Fredrik Wirz received a yellow card in the 38th minute for a bad tackle, a caution that would influence his approach for the remainder of the half. Despite this, Old Stamfield maintained their shape and discipline, heading into the break with the scoreline still goalless at half time.

The second half saw a tactical shake-up from Old Stamfield in the 73rd minute, with a triple substitution designed to inject fresh energy and creativity. William Wilngrove replaced Eduardo Camavinga on the left attacking midfield, Jamie Johnson came on for Sam Jones on the right wing, and Ben Spencer took over from Sam Miller in central midfield. These changes shifted the dynamic of the team, with Wilngrove immediately making an impact.

Just seven minutes after coming on, Wilngrove scored a stunning direct free-kick from long range with his right foot, expertly assisted by Fredrik Wirz. This goal broke the deadlock and gave Old Stamfield the lead, sparking celebrations among the home supporters.

Shortly after, Rory Stride was booked for persistent infringements in the 82nd minute, reflecting the mounting pressure and intensity of the contest. Stratford F.C. responded late in the game, earning a penalty in the 90th minute following a poor dos santos challenge, which they converted with a left-footed strike, levelling the score and setting up a tense finale.

The drama escalated deep into injury time when Dos Santos slipped coming out to collect a long ball and was rounded my the stratford striker. Antoine Todibo pulled the striker back just outside the area, the stratford striker continued and then fouled Stride, who was about to prevent the goal. The ball rolled into the net with Stratford players celebrating a winner. However following a VAR review the goal was ruled out for a foul and Tobido was subsequently showed ared card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity in the 94th minute, reducing Old Stamfield to ten men. Despite this setback, the home side remained resolute.

In the 96th minute, Old Stamfield made a final tactical substitution, bringing on Emyll Leclerc for the cautioned Fredrik Wirz to shore up the midfield and see out the closing stages, accepting a draw against the ten men.

The drama however was not over, when deep into injury time in the 101st minute, a strong challenge from Wilkinson, set Wilngrove away. A 3 on 2 for 10 man Old Stamfield in the dying minutes to win the game against all odds. As he reached the area, Wilngrove slid in Lary who finished well into the far corner with his right foot to restore Old Stamfield’s lead. This late strike proved to be the winner, sealing a hard-fought 2-1 victory.

William Wilngrove’s introduction and subsequent contributions earned him the player of the match accolade, his influence pivotal in turning the game in Old Stamfield’s favour. Referee Peter Bankes managed the game well, maintaining control throughout a fiercely competitive encounter.

Old Stamfield’s tactical flexibility, combined with key moments of individual brilliance, ensured they secured a vital three points at Banbury, leaving Stratford F.C. to rue missed opportunities and a late penalty that was not enough to salvage a point.