How they rated:
Halesowen 2, Banbury United 0
Platt: Made one fine save in the first half from a Ricky Johnson header but was well protected and largely untroubled in the second. 6.
Curley: Solid afternoon from the full back who had a lot of space to cover on the right flank in the first half. Did well. 7.
Kelly: Another who battled well to earn a much-needed clean sheet. Positioned himself well to see off the threat of Ravin Shamsi. 7.
Fitzpatrick: Outstanding performance from the defender after he dropped back into he backline after his midfield role against Stour. A towering display. Won the ball well and composed in possession. 8.
Morris: Another who excelled as the Yeltz dug in for victory. Protected Platt well and commanding in the air. 7.5.
Bragoli: All action and was soon heavily involved. Great energy in the middle of the park and always snapping into challenges to disrupt the Banbury attacks. 7.5.
Bakare: Neat and tidy on the ball and showed what he is capable of with a fine run and shot in the second half as he burst forward. 7.
Rea: Another who worked hard in the middle to help Hales control the contest after going ahead. 7.
Hughes: Ran the line well, always an option and was in the right place at the right time to prove the finish to Sweeney’s low cross for the second. 7.
Taylor: So comfortable with the ball at his feet and got his side on the front foot. Faded a little in the second half but was always a threat. 7.
Sweeney: A really good performance and capped with a stunning strike to open his account with the Yeltz. Soon set up the second too. 7.5.
Subs:
Lawton: Replaced Hughes with 18 minutes left on the clock and helped get his side over the line. 6.
Higginson: Late replacement for Bakare. N/A.
Unused subs: Wheatley, Boucher, Gilpin.
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