Bransay Athletic: Land of the Giants

---

---

As I sit down to reflect on February and March 2035, it’s been a rollercoaster for Bransay Athletic. Nine matches, four wins, two draws, and three losses have kept us in the hunt, but Washington’s relentless form has stretched their lead to six points. With 66 points after 34 games, we’re clinging to second place, the only side still mathematically in the title race with four games left. Our run-in looks kinder than Washington’s, but I’m bracing for the play-offs again. Here’s how the last two months unfolded.

We started February with a dramatic 1-0 win over Barton Town at Forge Road on the 3rd. It was a tense, scrappy game, with chances at a premium. In the 95th minute, Conner Burrows saved us, latching onto a loose ball in the box after a deflected cross and smashing it into the top left corner, sending our 200-odd fans into delirium.

On the 10th, we stumbled at Billingham Synthonia Stadium, losing 4-2. Matt Gordon put us ahead in the 12th minute, slotting in Zoltán Németh’s low pass after a quick break. Ryan Tioffo doubled our lead in the 46th, heading in Burrows’ curling cross. But Billingham Synthonia roared back, with Justin Obikwu tapping in Adrian Durda’s cross in the 52nd. Jorge Perritt levelled in the 71st, rifling a 20-yard shot into the bottom right. Rodger Midgley put them ahead in the 85th, heading in Callum Weston’s delivery, and Obikwu sealed it in the 88th, slotting in Philip Dunne’s through ball.

On the 17th, we suffered another defeat, 2-1 to Billingham Town at Forge Road. Ryan Swailes struck twice early, first in the 13th minute, heading in Jack Leahy’s cross, then in the 22nd, tapping in Shane Curran’s low pass. Burrows pulled one back in the 48th, nodding in Dean Culbert’s deep cross, but we couldn’t find an equaliser despite piling on pressure.

On the 24th, we drew 2-2 at Marske United’s Mount Pleasant. Sampson Jacobs gave Marske the lead in the 7th minute, slotting in Lucas Houghton’s pass. Max Storey made it 2-0 in the 45th, curling in Trent Chapman’s cutback. Burrows responded in stoppage time, volleying in Iain Shaw’s through ball, and he equalised in the 86th, heading in Jonathyn Lovegreen’s pinpoint cross after a swift counter.

March kicked off with a 4-1 rout of Whitby Town at Forge Road on the 3rd. Tioffo opened the scoring in the 13th minute, tapping in Joe Starbuck’s low cross. Gordon doubled our lead in the 27th, curling in Tioffo’s pass from the edge of the box. Németh made it 3-0 in the 41st, heading in Starbuck’s lofted delivery. Daniel Jones pulled one back for Whitby in the 76th, slotting in Charlie Walklate’s pass, but Tioffo sealed it in the 86th, volleying in Gordon’s chipped pass.

On the 10th, we dominated Polonia Yorkshire 3-0 at South Leeds Stadium. Espen Jenssen headed in Luke Daley’s corner in the 14th minute, towering over the defence. Burrows added a second in the 79th, latching onto Daley’s through ball to fire into the bottom right. Németh wrapped it up in the 95th, heading in Daley’s curling cross from the left.

On the 17th, we fell 1-0 to Shildon at Forge Road. Despite controlling possession, Mark Christensen Damm caught us out in the 80th minute, slotting in Josh Eppiah’s low cross after a rare defensive lapse.

We bounced back on the 24th, winning 4-2 at Emley AFC’s Sports Ground. It started badly, with former Bransay midfielder Lee Cook scoring in the first minute, tapping in Kyle Lee’s pass. Starbuck equalised in the 6th, curling in Shaw’s cutback. Nathan Myers restored Emley’s lead in the 13th, heading in Robbie Reynolds’ cross. Burrows levelled in the 74th, rifling a 25-yard shot into the top left after a loose ball. Tioffo put us ahead in the 82nd, tapping in Németh’s low cross, and Németh sealed it in the 84th, latching onto Omar Daley’s long ball over the top to slot home.

On the 31st, we drew 1-1 with Worksop Town at Forge Road. Paul Smith gave Worksop the lead in the 36th minute, heading in Sam Casey’s cross. Németh rescued a point in the 87th, curling in Burrows’ through ball after a late surge.

---

The league table shows Washington leading with 72 points, six ahead of us on 66. Barton Town are 3rd with 58, followed by Marske United on 57 and Emley AFC on 56 in the play-off spots.

Wakefield have 56 in 7th, Redcar Athletic 54 in 8th, and Polonia Yorkshire and Bishop Auckland are tied on 53 in 9th and 10th.

Midtable, Crook Town have 48 in 11th, Morpeth Town 46 in 12th, West Auckland Town and Billingham Synthonia are on 38 each in 13th and 14th, Billingham Town have 36 in 15th, and Dunston 34 in 16th.

In the relegation zone, Whitby Town have 31 in 17th, Cleethorpes Town 27 in 18th, Worksop Town 23 in 19th, and Hebburn Town are relegated with 20 in 20th.

With four games left against West Auckland, Bishop Auckland, Hebburn and Dunston, our run-in looks manageable compared to Washington’s tougher fixtures against Billingham Synthonia, Marske, Polonia Yorkshire and Emley. Truthfully, I think the title’s slipping away and we’re destined for the play-offs again. But we’ve fought through worse and with Németh, Tioffo and Burrows firing, we’re not done yet.

---

---

Washington secured the Northern Premier League Division One East title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Polonia Yorkshire at Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground today, sealed by Alex Thackeray’s 90th-minute winner.

The result, coming on the heels of a shock 6-0 defeat to Marske United last week, ensures Washington’s promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division next season, capping a remarkable campaign.

The match began with Washington asserting early dominance. In the 12th minute, Henry Hearn opened the scoring, latching onto a precise through ball from Jayden Fevrier and slotting a low shot into the bottom right corner past Polonia’s goalkeeper.

The lead was short-lived, however, as Neale Oldring equalised for Polonia Yorkshire in the 15th minute, heading in a pinpoint cross from Peter Barr at the far post. Both sides traded chances in a tightly contested affair, with Washington’s goalkeeper making a crucial save to deny Myles Nadat’s long-range effort.

As the clock ticked down, it seemed the match was heading for a draw, but Thackeray had other ideas. In the 90th minute, he collected a lofted pass from Fevrier, shrugged off a defender, and rifled a 20-yard strike into the top left corner, sparking wild celebrations among the home fans.

The victory propels Washington to 78 points, five clear of second-placed Bransay Athletic with only one match remaining. Bransay, despite a convincing 3-0 win away to relegated Hebburn Town today, must now prepare for the play-offs against Emley AFC, Marske United and Shildon for a second promotion spot.

Washington’s triumph is all the more remarkable given their stumble last week, where Marske United ran riot in a 6-0 rout. That loss, coupled with Bransay’s consistent pressure, had raised doubts about Washington’s ability to close out the season. Yet, today’s resilience showcased their championship mettle, with Thackeray’s late heroics proving decisive. Manager Sam Wort will now look to build on this success in the Premier Division, where Washington will face stiffer competition in the seventh tier of English football.

For Bransay Athletic, the play-offs loom as an opportunity to salvage promotion after a stellar season that saw them briefly top the table. Emley AFC, Marske United and Shildon, all confirmed in the play-off spots, will provide formidable opposition. As the final day approaches next Saturday, Washington can celebrate a hard-earned title, while Bransay and the play-off contenders gear up for a tense battle for promotion.

---

---

Bransay Athletic secured their place in the Northern Premier League Division One East play-off final with a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Shildon at Forge Road, following a tense 1-1 draw after 90 minutes.

The result sets up a home final against Marske United, who comfortably defeated Emley AFC 2-0 in the other semi-final tonight.

The match began with Shildon asserting early pressure, their physical approach testing Bransay’s resolve. In the 15th minute, Shildon took the lead through Bradley Mooney. Tom Allan’s free kick from near the halfway line on the right sailed into the box, where Juan struck a first-time shot across goal. Omar Daley produced a fine save, but the ball fell to Mooney, who tapped into an open net.

Bransay responded with characteristic grit, equalising in the 42nd minute. Dean Culbert’s throw-in found Wayne Easton on the right wing, who surged forward and hooked a precise cross to Conner Burrows. The winger’s header angled down and across Shildon goalkeeper Jake Hope, nestling into the far corner.

The second half saw both sides create chances, with Daley denying Juan’s header and Hope thwarting a fierce drive from Zoltán Németh. Despite Bransay’s growing dominance, Shildon’s resolute defending forced the game to penalties.

The shootout was a nervy affair. Shildon’s Mark Christensen Damm converted their first, drilling his effort into the top left, but Dieudonné Belinga equalised with a calm strike down the middle. Tom Allan restored Shildon’s lead, slotting into the bottom right, only for Wayne Easton to level at 2-2 with a powerful shot. Josh Eppiah made it 3-2, blasting his penalty high, and Jonathyn Lovegreen responded, finding the top corner for 3-3. Bosun Lawal’s low drive put Shildon ahead 4-3, but Burrows kept Bransay alive, rifling into the bottom left for 4-4.

The decisive moment came when Shildon’s Melvin Aurélian stepped up for their fifth penalty. His soft, central effort was at perfect catching height, and Daley, standing firm, caught it with ease, stunning the Shildon players and staff. Ryan Tioffo then sealed Bransay’s victory, striking a strong penalty into the bottom right as Hope dived the right way but couldn’t reach it.

The 477 fans at Forge Road erupted, their chants echoing into the night as Bransay secured a second consecutive play-off final appearance.

In the other semi-final, Marske United dispatched Emley AFC 2-0 at Mount Pleasant, with Trent Chapman setting up both of Sampson Jacobs’ goals in a clinical display.

As Bransay finished the regular season in second place, ahead of third-placed Marske, Forge Road will host Saturday’s final, potentially a crucial advantage. Last season, Bransay fell 3-2 to Whickham in the play-off final at Glebe Sports Ground, where Whickham’s higher finish as fourth-placed secured home advantage over Bransay’s fifth. This time, playing in front of their own supporters on their own pitch could tip the scales.

The victory over Shildon highlights Bransay’s resilience, with Burrows’ equaliser and Daley’s heroics in the shootout proving pivotal. As the Isle of Bransay club prepare to face Marske United, who have rediscovered their form after a mid-season dip, manager Callum Baird will hope his side’s attacking prowess and defensive solidity can deliver promotion to the Northern Premier League Premier Division. With the memory of last season’s heartbreak still fresh, Bransay’s supporters will be dreaming of a triumphant end to their remarkable campaign this time around.

---

---

It’s Saturday, and the air at Forge Road is electric as Ella, Lucy and I pull up to the stadium. Lucy’s clutching her crimson red and dark grey scarf, eyes wide with excitement, while Ella gives me a reassuring smile. “You’ve got this, Callum,” she says, squeezing my hand.

The stands are filling with 1,090 fans, a huge crowd for us, their voices already buzzing. I kiss Lucy on the forehead, promising her a wave from the pitch, and head inside, my heart pounding.

This is it – our second shot at the Northern Premier League Premier Division, against Marske United, after last season’s gut-wrenching 3-2 loss to Whickham in the play-off final. Today, we’re at home, and I’m determined to make it count.

In the dressing room, the lads are focused, lacing up boots and taping wrists. I gather them round, looking at each face: Omar Daley in goal, Dean Culbert at right-back, Luke Daley at left-back, Jonathyn Lovegreen and Espen Jenssen at centre-back, Joe Starbuck on the right wing, Conner Burrows on the left, Iain Shaw and Matt Gordon in central midfield, and Ryan Tioffo and Zoltán Németh up top - this is Zoltán’s last game before he joins Hódmezővásárhelyi.

On the bench, we’ve got Jaydan Howcroft, Rubin Balsom, Wayne Easton, Ryan Hassan, and Mark Grech. Five of this starting XI – Espen, Conner, Matt, Ryan and Zoltán - were there last year when Whickham broke our hearts, Ryan’s brace not enough to stop that 3-2 defeat. I need to fire them up.

“Lads,” I start, voice steady but firm, “this is our moment. Forge Road, our home, over a thousand fans screaming for us. You know what’s at stake - promotion to the Premier Division, a step closer to the big time. Last year, five of you stood in that Glebe Sports Ground dressing room, gutted after Whickham. Ryan, you scored twice, gave everything, but it wasn’t enough. Today, we’re at home and we’re not letting history repeat itself. You’re the heart of Bransay, every one of you. Zoltán, this is your last dance with us - 133 goals, a legend. Let’s make it a story they’ll sing about on the Isle for years. Fight for every ball, every inch. Let’s fucking do it!”

The game kicks off, and it’s cagey. In the 5th minute, Ryan Tioffo picks up a booking for a late challenge, but we settle in. Marske strike first in the 25th. Lucas Houghton’s throw-in on the left finds Charlie Petrie, who plays it back to Zach Simons at the halfway line. Simons launches a high ball into the box, Joe Starbuck heads it clear, but Houghton picks it up in the corner, links with Petrie, and crosses for Max Storey. Storey takes one touch and nests the ball in the bottom left past Omar. I look down, shaking my head - flashbacks to Whickham’s opener last year. “Come on, lads!” I shout from the touchline. “Get straight back at them!”

We restart, playing long down the left to Burrows. It’s headed out for a throw deep in Marske’s half. Luke Daley throws to Burrows, who knocks it inside to Matt Gordon. Gordon plays it back to Luke, whose cross is headed away by Houghton, only to Dean Culbert on the edge of the box. Dean controls, drifts into the box and dinks a cross to the far post. Burrows loses his marker and heads it back across goal, past Andre Peters, for 1-1. The crowd roars and I punch the air. We’re back in it, but there’s more to do.

In the 28th, Espen Jenssen’s free kick from our half finds Luke Daley, who hits a deep cross. Houghton volleys it away, but Gordon heads it to Tioffo, who plays to Shaw. Shaw finds Luke Daley bombing down the left, and his shot forces a diving catch from Peters.

In the 35th, Shaw’s inswinging corner from the left whips towards the near post. Jenssen gets a faint touch, the ball glancing in with enough pace to beat Peters - 2-1! Forge Road erupts, Lucy’s voice somewhere in the din.

In the 41st, Tioffo nicks the ball off Simons, sprinting 50 yards into Marske’s half. He plays to Gordon, who slips in Németh. Zoltán’s first-time shot is tipped onto the post by Peters. Joe Starbuck wins a free kick on the right after the save; Luke Daley’s cross is flicked away to Németh on the left wing, who crosses to Jenssen at the far post, but his header goes wide.

Half-time comes, and I’m buzzing. “That’s it, lads!” I say in the dressing room. “You fought back, took the lead - brilliant. But it’s not over. Stay tight, keep pushing. You’re making history!”

The second half is gruelling. In the 54th, Max Storey’s corner finds Ayrton Towlson, whose header clips the crossbar - a warning. In the 61st, Jenssen’s long ball is nodded down by Németh to Tioffo, who drives into the box and unleashes a shot that smacks the crossbar. Simons clears for a throw.

In the 70th, I bring on Ryan Hassan for Németh, who gets a standing ovation from the 1,090 fans. Zoltán blows kisses, clapping the stands, his 125 goals and four-and-a-half years etched in Bransay’s soul. In the 73rd, Starbuck’s booked for a clumsy tackle. In the 76th, I make a double change: Rubin Balsom for Culbert and Wayne Easton for Starbuck.

Chances dry up as Marske push, but Omar’s solid, and our backline holds. The full-time whistle blows, and I sprint onto the pitch, arms wide, hugging every player I can reach. They’re knackered but elated, collapsing in heaps.

We’ve done it - 2-1, promotion to the Premier Division at the second attempt! Fans flood the pitch, scarves aloft, though I spot some scuffles in the stands between our supporters and the 490 Marske fans. The tension of a tight game boiled over, but it’s a fleeting blemish on a perfect day.

I find Ella and Lucy in the crowd, lifting Lucy onto my shoulders as she waves her scarf. “We did it, love,” I whisper to Ella.

---

---

---

Looking back on April and May 2035, it’s been a defining period for us. Six matches, three wins, two draws, and a historic play-off campaign have delivered our first-ever promotion without a league title, securing our place in the Northern Premier League Premier Division. We finished the regular season with 74 points, second behind Washington’s 79, and navigated the play-offs to clinch promotion. It’s a moment I’ll never forget, and here’s how it all unfolded.

We kicked off April on the 7th with a wild 3-3 draw against West Auckland Town at Darlington Road. Zoltán Németh put us ahead in the 13th minute, heading in Luke Daley’s curling cross from the left. Sam Gillies equalised two minutes later, slotting in Greig Anderson’s low pass. Gillies struck again in stoppage time, tapping in David Williams’ cross. West Auckland took the lead in the 56th when Williams volleyed in Gillies’ through ball, but Iain Shaw pulled one back in the 61st, rifling a 20-yard shot into the top right after a loose ball. Ryan Tioffo levelled in the 63rd, nodding in Joe Starbuck’s deep cross. Wayne Easton’s missed penalty in the 83rd, saved by their keeper, left us with a point but a sense of missed opportunity.

On the 14th, we bounced back with a 3-1 win over Bishop Auckland at Forge Road. Németh opened the scoring in the 29th, tapping in Conner Burrows’ low cross. Sonny Graham equalised in the 36th, heading in Matthew Bray’s delivery, but Németh restored our lead a minute later, volleying in Starbuck’s chipped cross. Starbuck sealed it in the 71st, slotting in Shaw’s through ball after a swift counter.

On the 21st, we cruised to a 3-0 victory against relegated Hebburn Town at Green Energy Sports Ground. Starbuck struck in the 26th, heading in Luke Daley’s cross from the left. Matt Gordon made it 2-0 in the 31st, converting a penalty after a handball. Burrows wrapped it up in the 47th, tapping in Gordon’s low pass after a neat one-two.

On the 28th, we drew 4-4 with Dunston at UTS Stadium in a chaotic clash. Adam Whalley gave Dunston the lead in the 10th, heading in Alex Elliott’s cross. Tioffo equalised in the 45th, curling in Shaw’s cutback. Adam Gill restored Dunston’s lead in stoppage time, nodding in Jordan Lamb’s cross. Espen Jenssen levelled in the 52nd, heading in Luke Daley’s corner. Gill struck again in the 82nd, tapping in Oisin McEntee’s pass, but Tioffo equalised in the 84th, heading in Starbuck’s cross. Németh put us ahead in the 93rd, slotting in Burrows’ through ball, but Gill completed his hat-trick in the 98th, heading in another Lamb cross to snatch a point.

May brought the play-offs, starting with a dramatic semi-final against Shildon at Forge Road on the 1st, ending 1-1 and won 5-4 on penalties. Bradley Moonan gave Shildon the lead in the 26th, tapping in a rebound after Omar Daley’s save. Burrows equalised in the 42nd, heading in Dean Culbert’s deep cross. In the shootout, Melvin Aurélian’s weak penalty was caught by Daley, and Tioffo’s clinical strike into the bottom right sealed our victory.

The play-off final on the 5th against Marske United at Forge Road was a defining moment. Max Storey put Marske ahead in the 25th minute, taking one touch from a Charlie Petrie cross and nestling it into the bottom left. Burrows responded instantly in the 26th, heading in Dean Culbert’s dinked cross for 1-1. In the 35th, Espen Jenssen glanced in Luke Daley’s whipped corner to make it 2-1. Despite a tense second half, we held firm to secure promotion.

---

The league table tells the story: Washington won the title with 79 points, five ahead of us on 74. Marske and Emley took 3rd and 4th with 70 points each, Shildon 5th on 66.

Wakefield missed the play-offs with 65, followed by Barton and Polonia Yorkshire on 60, Bishop Auckland on 59, Redcar Athletic on 58, Morpeth on 56, Crook Town on 52, West Auckland on 48, and Billingham Synthonia on 45.

Billingham Town finished 15th on 39, Dunston 16th on 36, just clear of relegated Whitby Town on 35, Cleethorpes Town, Worksop Town, and Hebburn Town.

This promotion, our first without a title, feels different - harder fought, sweeter for it. With Németh leaving, Tioffo, Burrows, and the lads stepped up when it mattered. The Premier Division awaits and we’re ready to make our mark.

---

---

As we gear up for our first season in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, the excitement and nerves are palpable. After our dramatic play-off final win over Marske United last May, we’ve earned our spot in the seventh tier and it’s a chance to test ourselves against some proper outfits.

With 22 teams, 42 games, one automatic promotion spot, play-offs for 2nd to 5th and four relegation places, it’s going to be a gruelling campaign. Here’s what lies ahead for Bransay Athletic, from the Isle of Bransay to the bigger stages like Hoole United’s 14,480-capacity stadium and Barrow’s Holker Street.

Barrow are the bookies’ favourites at 5/4, and it’s no surprise. Relegated from the Football League just four years ago, they’ve got a point to prove. Their new manager, 37-year-old Charlie Peet, fresh from an assistant role at Abacus Media, replaces Chris Clarke and brings ambition to Holker Street’s 6,300-capacity ground.

Irlam Steel Rangers, last season’s runners-up with 95 points, are second favourites at 7/5, hungry to go one better than their loss to Rochdalians’ 102-point haul. Spennymoor Town, who finished 7th, are 9/4, while Abacus Media, promoted as NPL West champions under Barry Norman’s 12-year reign, sit at 4/1. Norman’s led them to seven promotions since the Lancashire & Cheshire Amateur Premier Division in 2027, so they’re no mugs.

Bradford Park Avenue (10/1, 9th last season) and Prescot Cables (11/1, promoted via NPL West play-offs after 17 years) are ones to watch, as are relegated Darlington (11/1, 22nd in National League North). North Shields (12/1, 13th last season) and us at 14/1, round out the top nine. We’re not fancied by the bookies, but after our play-off heroics, I’m backing our lads to surprise a few.

Hyde United and Sheffield FC, both at 18/1, Keighley United and Sir Tom Finney FC at 20/1, and Guiseley, Consett, and Runcorn Linnets at 25/1 are mid-table bets. Buxton, Hoole United, and Washington, our old NPL East rivals, are 33/1, while Whickham (50/1), Warrington Town (100/1), and Hanley Town (300/1) are tipped to struggle.

---

In goal, Omar Daley remains our No. 1 after a solid debut season, conceding 54 and keeping 7 clean sheets in 38 games. His penalty save against Shildon in the play-off semi-final was massive, and I’m counting on his agility to keep us tight at the back. Jaydan Howcroft, signed from Shildon, is a reliable back-up, bringing experience from 40 appearances at Billingham Town in 2032/33. He’s yet to make his mark for us, but he’s ready if called upon.

---

Dean Culbert, entering his 10th season with us, is a rock at right-back with 225 league appearances and 8 assists in 34 games last term. Beineon Creamer provides cover, pushing Dean to stay sharp. At left-back, we’ve replaced Billy Warwick with 21-year-old Joe Martin from the i2i Academy (63 apps over three seasons) and 21-year-old Welshman Liam Smith from North Shields (36 apps last season). They’ll battle for the starting spot, bringing youth and energy. In central defence, losing Jonathyn Lovegreen and Mark Grech hurt, but Espen Jenssen and Rubin Balsom are ready to step up. New signings Haydn Winson (Nostell Miners Welfare, 14 apps last season), James Byrne (Whitley Bay, 39 apps), and Danny Hennessy (Whickham, 37 apps) add depth and experience, ensuring a fierce fight for places.

---

The midfield’s had a major overhaul. Ren Yamada, Matt Gordon and Joe Starbuck’s departures were tough, but we’ve rebuilt smartly. On the right wing, 21-year-old Tim Campbell, a pacy winger from Addingham with 11 goals in 39 games last season, looks set to edge out Wayne Easton, despite Wayne’s 15 goals and 18 assists over two years. On the left, Conner Burrows, in his fifth season, remains our talisman, with Jacob Lloyd as back-up. In central midfield, Dieudonné Belinga will fight for his spot against new faces: 21-year-old Paul Love (Carlisle United, 12 apps on loan at Annan Athletic), 34-year-old Scott Smith (Briton Ferry, ex-Wigan and Preston) and 25-year-old Croatian Petar Šestan (Klas, 151 apps). Their mix of youth, experience, and technical ability gives us versatility.

---

Losing Zoltán Németh to Hódmezővásárhelyi was a blow - 133 goals in 213 appearances don’t come around often. Ryan Tioffo will lead the line, but we’ve bolstered the attack with 24-year-old Phil Grace (22 goals in 83 apps for North Shields), 22-year-old David O’Sullivan (29 goals in 111 apps) and 18-year-old Joshua Batchelor (11 goals in 35 for Bedworth United). Finding the right partner for Tioffo will be key, but this group has the potential to fire us up the table.

---

---

---

Christ, what a mess these past two months have been. August and September have left me tearing my hair out, as we languish in 19th place in the league, scraping together a pathetic eight points from 11 games. Three wins, six draws and five losses in all competitions - one of them in the league and two in the FA Cup - have us in the relegation zone and I’m absolutely livid. We’re not gelling, our keeper’s made of glass, and I’m sick of watching winnable games slip through our fingers like sand.

We kicked off the season on 11th August with a 1-1 draw against Keighley United at Forge Road. Ryan Tioffo gave us a dream start in the 21st minute, latching onto a pinpoint through ball from Petar Šestan and rifling it into the bottom right. But Keighley hit back in the 53rd, Bay Price-Jordan’s low cross finding Kevin Fisher to tap in at the far post. A draw on opening day? Fine, but it set the tone for our infuriating habit of throwing away points.

On the 15th, we lost 1-0 to Spennymoor Town at Brewery Field. We held them for 93 sodding minutes, only for Josh Giurgi to nick it in stoppage time, heading in Iain Reed’s whipped cross. I was fuming on the touchline - how do you let that happen so late?

We bounced back on the 18th, thrashing North Shields 4-0 at Forge Road. Tioffo struck in the first minute, volleying Šestan’s chipped pass into the top left. Phil Grace made it 2-0 in the 4th, tapping in Tioffo’s low cross after a swift counter. Conner Burrows added a third in the 42nd, heading in Wayne Easton’s curling cross, and Tioffo sealed it in the 88th, slotting in Dieudonné Belinga’s through ball. But the joy was short-lived - Omar Daley fractured his wrist catching a ball, sidelining him for three weeks. Jaydan Howcroft stepped in and we’ve been leaking goals ever since.

On the 22nd, we lost 2-1 to Whickham at Glebe Sports Ground, a place that still haunts me from last year’s play-off final. Ayrton Sheron put them ahead in the 68th, slotting in Daniel Ola’s pass. Tioffo equalised in the 78th, nodding in Tim Campbell’s cross, but Jack Robson broke our hearts in the 91st, tapping in Gary Mohamed’s low delivery. Another late collapse - un-fucking-believable.

On the 29th, we drew 2-2 with Buxton at Forge Road, despite Zulfiqar Vincent’s sending-off in the 31st for a second yellow. Shaun Clifton put Buxton ahead in stoppage time, heading in Nathan Moss’ cross. Šestan pulled one back in the 63rd, curling in Liam Smith’s cutback, and Danny Hennessy gave us the lead in the 78th, heading in another Smith cross. But Clifton equalised in the 87th, slotting in Stephen Gold’s pass. Two points dropped, again.

September started with a 1-0 FA Cup First Qualifying Round win over Holbeach United at Forge Road on the 1st. Andrew Craddock’s own goal in the 55th, deflecting a Liam Smith cross into his own net, was enough, but it was hardly inspiring.

On the 5th, we lost 1-0 to Abacus Media at home. Bartosz Walczak missed a penalty in the 18th, but redeemed himself in the 58th, tapping in Gérard Fickling’s low cross. We were toothless, and I was seething.

On the 8th, we drew 2-2 with Consett at Belle Vue Stadium. João Conceição scored a penalty in the 17th after a handball. Scott Smith equalised in the 33rd, slotting in a penalty after a foul on Tioffo. Harry Wallis put Consett ahead in the 57th, rifling a 20-yard shot into the top right, but Tioffo levelled in the 65th, heading in Paul Love’s chipped pass. On the 12th, we limped to a 0-0 draw with Hanley Town at Forge Road - dire stuff.

On the 15th, we edged Milton 2-1 in the FA Cup Second Qualifying Round at Milton Stadium. Lewis Collins gave them the lead in the 46th, slotting in Jordan Billingsley’s pass. Šestan equalised in the 68th, heading in Espen Jenssen’s long ball, and took the lead in the 71st, tapping in Liam Smith’s low cross.

On the 19th, we lost 2-1 to Sir Tom Finney at home. Ashley Lake scored in the 19th, curling in Ian Green’s pass, and Harry Johnson made it 2-0 in the 40th, heading in Cauley Budd’s cross. Šestan’s 88th-minute consolation, slotting in Love’s pass, was too little, too late. Worse, Omar Daley, back for just three games, broke his lower arm catching a ball, out for another 5-8 weeks. Howcroft’s back in and I’m losing my mind.

On the 22nd, we drew 2-2 with Hoole United at their 14,480-capacity stadium. Danny Walters scored in the 19th, tapping in Frankie Baker’s cross. Wayne Easton pulled one back in the 71st, volleying Tioffo’s pass, and Tioffo gave us the lead in the 73rd, heading in Phil Grace’s cross. Jordan Burch equalised in the 85th, slotting in Archie White’s pass.

On the 29th, we drew 3-3 with Bury at Gigg Lane in the FA Cup Third Qualifying Round. Tim Campbell scored in the 15th, tapping in Tioffo’s low cross. Conley Boardley equalised in the 33rd, heading in Paul Cunningham’s delivery. Tioffo put us ahead in the 41st, nodding in Burrows’ cross, but Billy Thomas levelled in the 57th, slotting in Charlie Benyon’s pass. Burrows gave us the lead in the 67th, curling in a 20-yard shot, but Brahim Banzé equalised in the 84th, tapping in another Cunningham cross. We’ve got a replay at Forge Road in October, but it’s another draw we should’ve won.

---

The league table is grim. Abacus Media lead with 28 points, followed by Irlam Steel Rangers and Sir Tom Finney on 25, Runcorn Linnets on 24, and Barrow on 22 in the play-off spots.

Consett have 22, Buxton 20, Darlington 19, and Spennymoor Town 18. Keighley United and Whickham have 15, North Shields 14, Hanley Town and Washington 13, Prescot Cables, Sheffield, and Hyde United 12, and Guiseley 11.

We’re 19th on 8 points, just ahead of Hoole United on 7, Bradford Park Avenue on 6 and Warrington Town on 5. We’re in the relegation zone and it’s a disgrace.

This start’s been shocking. Omar Daley’s injuries are killing us - 7 goals conceded in 7 games with 2 clean sheets, compared to Howcroft’s 13 conceded in 9 with 3 clean sheets. The new lads aren’t clicking - Tim Campbell and Conner Burrows are struggling on the wings and Jacob Lloyd’s barely better.

Tioffo’s carrying us, but none of his new strike partners - Grace, O’Sullivan, or Batchelor - are matching Németh’s spark. This summer’s overhaul was the biggest I’ve ever done, and it’s a mess. We’re turning wins into draws and draws into losses, and I’m sick of it. We’ve got to sort this shit out, fast, or we’re staring at relegation. I’m not having it - not after everything we’ve fought for to get here.

---

---

Bransay Athletic secured their place in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bury in a tense Third Qualifying Round replay at Forge Road.

A 15th-minute penalty from Conner Burrows proved decisive, setting up a clash against York City in the next round.

The Irons, battling to climb out of the Northern Premier League Premier Division relegation zone, showed grit to overcome a stubborn Bury side and keep their cup dreams alive.

The match began with both teams feeling each other out, the 1,090 fans in attendance creating a lively atmosphere despite the chilly October evening. Bransay, coming off a frustrating 3-3 draw with Bury at Gigg Lane, knew they needed an early spark. They got it in the 15th minute when Ryan Tioffo was bundled over in the box by Bury defender Paul Cunningham after a darting run. Referee James Bell pointed to the spot and Burrows stepped up, coolly slotting the penalty into the bottom right corner as Bury goalkeeper Charlie Benyon dived the wrong way.

The early goal settled nerves, but Bransay struggled to build on their lead, with Bury’s resolute defending keeping chances at a premium.

Bury nearly equalised in the 28th minute when Conley Boardley’s header from a Billy Thomas cross forced a sharp save from Jaydan Howcroft, standing in for the injured Omar Daley.

Bransay’s new signings, Petar Šestan and Liam Smith, worked tirelessly to maintain control, but the hosts couldn’t find a second goal. In the second half, Bury pushed harder, with Brahim Banzé’s 62nd-minute shot skimming the bar after a neat turn.

Bransay’s defence, led by Espen Jenssen and Danny Hennessy, held firm, and Howcroft’s late save from Thomas’ low drive in the 85th minute ensured the 1-0 scoreline held.

The victory marks a bright spot in an otherwise challenging start to Bransay’s season, with the club sitting 19th in the Premier Division on eight points. Manager Callum Baird will hope the momentum carries into their next fixture, an FA Trophy Third Qualifying Round tie against Darlington at Forge Road, before they return to league action away at Prescot Cables’ Valerie Park.

The upcoming clash with York City, a National League side, in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round offers Bransay a chance to test themselves against higher-tier opposition and continue their cup run.

For the Forge Road faithful, Burrows’ penalty and a dogged defensive display have given them something to cheer about as the season’s grind continues.

---

---

Bransay Athletic have pulled off a stunning 4-3 victory over Worthing at Woodside Road in the FA Cup First Round, advancing to face Carlisle United in the Second Round on 1 December.

The Irons, battling to find their feet in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, showed remarkable resilience in a pulsating match that saw them overcome two deficits to secure a historic win on the south coast.

The game started cautiously, with both sides probing in front of a vocal 1,400-strong crowd. Worthing struck first in the 33rd minute, Matt Edwards unleashing a curling 26-yard strike into the top corner after a precise pass from Charlie Claisse.

Bransay suffered a blow in the 41st minute when midfielder Paul Love limped off with a groin strain, forcing a reshuffle. Undeterred, the Irons responded just before half-time. In the 42nd minute, Tim Campbell’s lofted cross found Petar Šestan, who volleyed a crisp effort past Worthing goalkeeper George Barrett to make it 1-1.

Worthing regained the lead early in the second half, Steve Davies tapping in from close range in the 49th minute after Ceri Richards’ low cross. Bransay hit back in the 57th minute, Phil Grace latching onto Conner Burrows’ pinpoint through ball to place a measured shot into the bottom right.

The momentum swung in Bransay’s favour in the 61st minute when Liam Smith’s whipped cross was met by Campbell, whose powerful 15-yard strike flew into the top left corner to give the Irons a 2-1 lead.

The turning point came in the 70th minute when a rare error from Barrett saw him fumble a clearance, allowing Bransay captain Ryan Tioffo to pounce and rifle a powerful shot into the net for 3-1. Worthing fought back in the 75th minute, Edwards heading in Joshua Gordon’s cross from inside the six-yard box to make it 4-3, but Bransay’s defence, led by Espen Jenssen and Rubin Balsom, held firm to see out the victory.

This triumph marks a high point in a challenging season for Bransay, who recently climbed out of the Premier Division relegation zone with a 2-1 league win over Guiseley in October.

The Irons’ cup run continues to provide a bright spot, with manager Callum Baird praising the team’s character. “We showed proper fight today,” Baird said post-match. “Going behind twice and losing Paul [Love] could’ve sunk us, but the lads dug deep. Tioffo’s leadership and Campbell’s spark were massive.”

Bransay now face a trip to Carlisle United’s Brunton Park in the FA Cup Second Round on 1 December, a chance to test themselves against League Two opposition.

Before that, they take on Thackley in the Integro League Cup Second Round and Altrincham away in the FA Trophy Second Round later this month. With their next league fixture against Prescot Cables at Valerie Park, Bransay will look to carry this momentum into their fight for survival in the Premier Division.

---

---

---

October and November 2035 have been a rollercoaster, and I’m knackered just thinking about it. Seventeen matches - twelve wins, two draws, three losses - and we’ve clawed our way out of the relegation zone to 12th in the Northern Premier League Premier Division with 27 points from 20 games. Our FA Cup run’s been a lifeline, but the league’s still a grind and don’t get me started on the Integro League Cup shambles.

October started with a gritty 1-0 win over Bury in the FA Cup Third Qualifying Round replay at Forge Road on the 2nd. Conner Burrows slotted a penalty in the 15th minute after a blatant handball, and we held on despite Bury’s late pressure.

On the 6th, we smashed Darlington 3-1 in the FA Trophy Third Qualifying Round at home. Brendan Powell scored for them in the 12th, heading in a cross from that traitor Jonathyn Lovegreen, but Tim Campbell levelled in the 39th, tapping in Petar Šestan’s low pass. Burrows put us ahead in the 49th, slotting in Ryan Tioffo’s through ball, and Wayne Easton sealed it in the 90th, volleying Joe Martin’s cross into the top corner.

On the 9th, we thumped Prescot Cables 4-1 at Valerie Park. Burrows opened with a penalty in the 20th after a foul on Tioffo. In the 26th, Andrew Porter turned Liam Smith’s cross into his own net. Espen Jenssen made it 3-0 in the 28th, heading in Tioffo’s pinpoint cross. Ben Beechey pulled one back in the 84th, tapping in Ethon Carey’s pass, but Tioffo wrapped it up in the 86th, nodding in Easton’s deep cross.

On the 13th, we drew 1-1 with York City in the FA Cup Fourth Qualifying Round at their place. Bernard Itodo scored in the 9th, curling a 20-yard shot after a loose ball. Phil Grace equalised in the 84th, slotting in Tioffo’s low pass.

The replay on the 16th at Forge Road was a cracker - 3-1 to us. Nico Mullan’s 35th-minute penalty put York ahead, but Tioffo equalised a minute later, heading in Campbell’s cross. Tioffo struck again in the 58th, tapping in David O’Sullivan’s cutback, and O’Sullivan sealed it in the 72nd, rifling a 15-yard shot after a solo run.

On the 20th, we messed it up against Bradford Park Avenue, losing 3-2 at home. Šestan scored a penalty in the 3rd after a handball, but Connor Evans equalised in the 10th, slotting in Iyrwah Handisides’ pass. Handisides made it 2-1 in the 25th, heading in Marc Haigh’s cross. Šestan’s second penalty in the 57th levelled it, but Leon Ayinde’s 81st-minute winner, a low drive from a loose ball, left me raging.

On the 24th, we beat Sheffield 3-1 at Forge Road. Tioffo scored in the 19th, nodding in Burrows’ cross. Grace made it 2-0 in the 49th, heading in Campbell’s delivery. Campbell added a third in the 57th, slotting in Liam Smith’s low cross. Stuart Campbell pulled one back in the 61st, tapping in Sam Bergin’s pass.

On the 27th, we edged St. Columbia’s 1-0 in the FA Trophy First Round at home, Scott Smith scoring in the 4th, volleying Grace’s layoff.

On the 30th, we nicked a 2-1 win over Guiseley at Nethermoor, finally climbing out of the drop zone. Jacob Lloyd scored in the 34th, heading in Easton’s cross. Jamie Moffat equalised in the 54th, slotting in a loose ball, but Campbell headed in Joe Martin’s cross in the 93rd for a massive three points.

November kicked off with a 4-3 thriller against Worthing in the FA Cup First Round at Woodside Road on the 3rd. Matt Edwards curled in a 26-yard screamer in the 33rd from Charlie Claisse’s pass. Paul Love went off with a groin strain in the 41st, which pissed me off, but Šestan equalised in the 42nd, volleying Campbell’s cross. Steve Davies restored Worthing’s lead in the 49th, tapping in Ceri Richards’ cross, but Grace levelled in the 57th, placing a shot from Burrows’ pass. Campbell put us ahead in the 61st, smashing in Liam Smith’s cross, and Tioffo made it 4-2 in the 70th, pouncing on a George Barrett error to rifle home. Edwards’ 75th-minute header from Joshua Gordon’s cross made it nervy, but we held on.

On the 6th, we beat Thackley 3-2 at Forge Road in the Integro League Cup Second Round. Danny Hennessy headed in Joe Martin’s corner in the 3rd. O’Sullivan made it 2-0 in the 7th, nodding in Easton’s cross. Joshua Batchelor scored in the 12th, tapping in a loose ball. Tyrrell Robinson pulled one back in the 59th, slotting in Rumarn Burrell’s pass, and Burrell made it 3-2 in the 82nd, heading in a cross. On the 10th, we won 3-2 at Hyde United’s Ewen Fields. Owen Owen’s 11th-minute penalty put them ahead, but Grace equalised in the 38th, tapping in Šestan’s pass. Campbell headed in Burrows’ cross in the 47th, and Charlie Hopley levelled in the 50th, slotting in Rhys Boswell’s pass. Hennessy’s 78th-minute header from Grace’s cross won it.

On the 13th, we edged Warrington Town 1-0 at Cantilever Park, Grace scoring in the 93rd, tapping in O’Sullivan’s low cross.

On the 17th, we crashed out of the FA Trophy Second Round, losing 4-1 to Altrincham at Moss Lane. Campbell scored in the 14th, slotting in Liam Smith’s pass, but Don Love equalised in stoppage time, heading in a cross. McCauley Gibbon put Altrincham ahead in the 61st, tapping in Patrick Hurley’s pass, Kameron McEnteer made it 3-1 in the 83rd, slotting in Stephen Conroy’s pass, and Love’s 91st-minute tap-in from McEnteer’s cross rubbed salt in the wound.

On the 21st, we drew 2-2 with Irlam Steel Rangers at home. O’Sullivan scored in the 19th, heading in Joe Martin’s cross. Darren Stewart equalised in the 29th, rifling a 20-yard shot. Ryan Addison put them ahead in the 33rd, tapping in Kitt Nelson’s pass, but Hennessy levelled in the 58th, heading in a loose ball.

On the 24th, we beat Washington 2-0 at Forge Road. O’Sullivan scored in the 39th, nodding in Campbell’s cross, and Šestan converted a penalty in the 54th after a foul on Tioffo.

The 27th was a disaster - drawing 2-2 with Bootle at New Bucks Park in the Integro League Cup Third Round, then losing 4-1 on penalties. Josh Mullins scored in the 29th, tapping in Troy Tarry’s cross. Mark O’Neill made it 2-0 in the 37th, heading in Luke Plange’s delivery. Lloyd pulled one back in the 45th, slotting in Haydn Winson’s pass, and James Byrne equalised in the 60th, heading in Joe Martin’s corner. In the shootout, only Dieudonné Belinga scored for us, with Grace and Scott Smith missing. Bootle nailed all four, and I was livid - another chance gone.

---

The league table’s a mixed bag. Abacus Media lead with 44 points from 20 games, followed by Barrow on 40, Irlam Steel Rangers on 39, Spennymoor Town on 36 and Sir Tom Finney on 33 in the play-offs.

Buxton have 32, Keighley United and Runcorn Linnets 31, Consett and North Shields 29, Prescot Cables 28 and we’re 12th on 27.

Washington and Darlington have 26, Hyde United and Whickham 24, Bradford Park Avenue and Sheffield 21.

Hanley Town (18 pts), Guiseley (17 pts), Hoole United (15 pts), and Warrington Town (13 pts) are in the drop zone.

I’m relieved we’re climbing, but I’m still pissed off. We have still been shaky. The new lads - Campbell, Grace, O’Sullivan - are starting to gel, but it’s taken too long. Tioffo’s carrying us, but we’re still missing Németh’s spark. The FA Cup run’s keeping us sane - Carlisle United next at Brunton Park - but the league’s a slog. We’ve got to stop pissing away points and build on these wins. This squad’s got potential, but I’m not settling for mid-table mediocrity. We need to sort it out, now.

---

---

Bransay Athletic pulled off one of the greatest victories in their history, defeating League Two side Carlisle United 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the FA Cup Second Round replay at Forge Road.

The triumph, in front of an electrified crowd of over 2,500, secures Bransay’s place in the Third Round, where they will host Championship side Millwall, managed by Thomas Frank on 5 January 2036. For a club sitting 12th in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, this victory over Carlisle, 8th in League Two, is a testament to the Irons’ grit and ambition.

The first leg at Brunton Park on 1 December set the stage for the drama, with nearly 5,000 fans witnessing a 3-3 cracker. Carlisle took the lead in the 29th minute when Espen Jenssen inadvertently flicked Marko Babić’s cross into his own net. Michael Gregory doubled their advantage in the 36th, curling a beautiful shot from the edge of the box into the bottom right.

Bransay responded swiftly, Tim Campbell heading Conner Burrows’ cross into the top left in the 38th. Petar Šestan levelled the score in the 45th minute, converting a penalty after a handball.

Carlisle regained the lead in the 73rd through Adrià, who latched onto Kyle Campbell’s through ball to sweep a low finish past Jenssen into the bottom left. Dieudonné Belinga rescued a draw in the 84th, finding the bottom left with a stunning edge-of-the-box strike, setting up the replay.

At Forge Road, Bransay came out firing. In the 19th minute, Jacob Lloyd intercepted a loose pass and surged through on goal, squaring to Phil Grace, who slotted a low shot past Carlisle goalkeeper Gavin Whittaker. David O’Sullivan made it 2-0 in the 38th, pouncing on a deflected shot from Wayne Easton to fire into the bottom right. Grace struck again in the 47th, volleying Joe Martin’s pinpoint cross to the back post into the net for 3-0.

Carlisle, however, refused to fold. Harrison Dudziak pulled one back in the 50th, unleashing a powerful strike into the top right corner from 15 yards. Dudziak scored again in the 69th, replicating his earlier effort with another fierce shot into the right corner. The comeback was complete in the 83rd when Jonathan Charles converted a penalty after a foul by Danny Hennessy, levelling the score at 3-3 and forcing a shootout.

The penalty shootout was where Bransay’s nerve shone. Carlisle’s Myles Deadfield fired their first penalty over the bar, and Jonathan Charles’ second was saved by Jaydan Howcroft, who stood firm in place of the injured Omar Daley. Bransay’s takers were flawless: Dieudonné Belinga rifled into the top left, Phil Grace slotted into the bottom right, Scott Smith powered into the top right, and Jacob Lloyd sealed the 4-2 victory with a cool finish past Whittaker into the bottom left. The Forge Road faithful erupted, storming the pitch as Bransay celebrated a monumental upset.

Manager Callum Baird was ecstatic post-match. “This is what the FA Cup’s about,” he said. “We went toe-to-toe with a League Two side, took a 3-0 lead and held our nerve in the shootout. The lads were immense - Grace, Lloyd, Daley, all of them. Millwall next? Bring it on.”

The Third Round clash against Millwall, 5th in the Championship after relegation from the Premier League last season, will see Bransay host at Forge Road, a rare chance to face a side with four years of top-flight experience.

---

---

Bransay Athletic have moved swiftly to strengthen their squad, announcing the arrivals of 27-year-old goalkeeper Nathan Redman from Workington and 32-year-old right-back Kareem Hassan-Smith, formerly of Broughton Amateurs.

The signings come as the Irons, currently 12th in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, aim to solidify their defence and goalkeeping options amid a challenging season marred by injuries.

Nathan Redman joins to address a goalkeeping crisis triggered by yet another injury to first-choice keeper Omar Daley, who suffered a fractured finger against Keighley United on 15 December. This marks Daley’s third significant injury in four months, sidelining him for nearly half the season. His back-up, Jaydan Howcroft, has struggled in his absence, conceding 16 goals in 11 appearances with only 2 clean sheets.

Redman, with a more robust injury record, brings much-needed stability. The 27-year-old spent the last season and a half at Workington, making 59 appearances, conceding 82 goals and keeping 10 clean sheets. Prior to that, he was a mainstay for Stalybridge Celtic in the Premier Division for two seasons, and also started for Alvechurch and Camelford.

Manager Callum Baird sees Redman as a potential first-choice keeper if his performances match his reliability. “Nathan’s a proven keeper at this level,” Baird said. “With Omar out again, we needed someone we can trust and Nathan’s record speaks for itself.”

Kareem Hassan-Smith, a 32-year-old right-back, arrives on a free transfer following his release from Broughton Amateurs. His pedigree is impressive, having played a key role in multiple promotion campaigns.

At Broughton, he made 119 appearances over three seasons, scoring 16 goals and providing 16 assists. Before that, he was instrumental in Hoole United’s remarkable five consecutive promotions from the Liverpool Amateur Premier Division to the North West Counties League Premier Division, contributing 18 goals and 10 assists in 63 appearances over five years. Earlier in his career, Hassan-Smith helped Bury achieve four straight promotions between 2023-24 and 2026-27, scoring 11 goals and assisting 9 in 112 appearances.

His attacking flair and experience will challenge Dean Culbert, a club stalwart with 286 appearances and Beineon Creamer for the right-back spot. “Kareem’s a winner,” Baird added. “He’s been part of several promotion pushes and his versatility and leadership will push Dean and Beineon to raise their game.”

The signings come at a crucial juncture for Bransay, who have climbed to mid-table after a torrid start but face a tough January, including an FA Cup Third Round clash against Championship side Millwall at Forge Road.

With Redman bolstering the goalkeeping ranks and Hassan-Smith adding depth and dynamism at right-back, Bransay hope to build on their recent FA Cup heroics and push for a stronger league position.

---

---

Bransay Athletic’s FA Cup journey came to an end in the Third Round with a valiant 2-1 defeat to Championship heavyweights Millwall at Forge Road, in front of a record-breaking crowd of over 7,000, including nearly 1,500 travelling Millwall fans.

The match, which generated an unprecedented £120,000 in gate receipts for Bransay - surpassing the £45,000 from their 2032 Second Round tie against Reading - saw the Irons, the lowest-ranked team left in the competition, put up a spirited fight despite being outclassed by a dominant Millwall side.

Millwall, sitting 4th in the Championship, controlled the game from the outset, racking up 25 shots, 11 on target, compared to Bransay’s mere four shots, with only one testing Millwall goalkeeper Paul Howe.

Bransay, 11th in the Northern Premier League Premier Division, relied heavily on the heroics of goalkeeper Omar Daley, who returned from a fractured finger injury to replace the cup-tied Nathan Redman. Daley’s string of saves kept the Irons in the contest, but Millwall’s quality ultimately proved too much.

Against the run of play, Bransay stunned the visitors in the 19th minute. New signing Kareem Hassan-Smith, making his mark at right-back, hung a pinpoint cross to the back post, where Conner Burrows rose above his marker to head powerfully into the top left corner, sending the Forge Road faithful into raptures.

The lead lasted just 12 minutes, as Millwall equalised in the 31st minute through a Carlos Alexandre penalty, rifled into the top right corner after a handball by Danny Hennessy.

Despite Daley’s acrobatics, including a stunning stop to deny Alexandre’s header, Millwall’s pressure told in the 73rd minute. A quick free kick from Tyrique George caught Bransay’s defence napping, finding Graham Hughes, who spun away from Hassan-Smith and slotted a precise shot into the bottom right corner to secure the 2-1 victory.

Manager Callum Baird praised his side’s resilience despite the loss. “We were up against a Championship side firing on all cylinders and we gave them a scare,” Baird said. “Omar was phenomenal, and Burrows’ goal showed we can compete. I’m gutted, but I’m proud of the lads and our fans - 7,000 here is unreal.” The gate receipts, a club record, offer a financial boost for Bransay, who have struggled with consistency in the league this season.

Millwall, managed by Thomas Frank, advance to host League One Colchester United at The Den in the Fourth Round. For Bransay, the focus returns to the Premier Division, with upcoming matches against Buxton and Runcorn Linnets.

---

---

---

There’s a flicker of hope amidst the chaos of December and January. Ten league games, four wins, three draws, three losses, plus our FA Cup run, have dragged us to 7th in the Northern Premier League Premier Division with 42 points from 29 games.

We’re 10 points off the play-offs with 13 games left, and while we’ve climbed out of the relegation mire, the inconsistency is driving me up the wall. Our cup runs have been a lifeline, but the league’s a slog, and I’m sick of watching us throw away points.

December started with a 3-3 draw against Carlisle United in the FA Cup Second Round at Brunton Park on the 1st, in front of nearly 5,000 fans. Espen Jenssen’s own goal in the 29th minute, flicking in Marko Babić’s cross, put us behind. Michael Gregory made it 2-0 in the 36th, curling a beauty into the bottom right from Ben Wakefield’s pass. Tim Campbell pulled one back in the 38th, heading in Conner Burrows’ cross. Petar Šestan levelled with a penalty in the 45th after a foul. Adrià restored Carlisle’s lead in the 73rd, sweeping in Kyle Campbell’s through ball, but Dieudonné Belinga’s 84th-minute stunner from Ryan Tioffo’s pass made it 3-3.

The replay on the 4th at Forge Road was electric, with 2,500 fans roaring us to a 3-3 draw and a 4-2 penalty shootout win. Phil Grace scored in the 19th, tapping in Jacob Lloyd’s square ball. David O’Sullivan made it 2-0 in the 38th, slotting in Wayne Easton’s deflected shot. Grace struck again in the 47th, volleying Joe Martin’s cross. Harrison Dudziak pulled one back in the 50th, rifling in Wakefield’s pass, and scored again in the 69th from another Wakefield assist. Jonathan Charles’ 83rd-minute penalty levelled it, but Myles Deadfield and Charles missed in the shootout, while Belinga, Grace, Scott Smith, and Lloyd nailed ours.

Back in the league, we drew 1-1 with Spennymoor Town at Forge Road on the 8th. Danny Hennessy headed in Campbell’s cross in the first minute, but Sam Brown equalised in the 37th, tapping in Kieron Willox’s low pass.

On the 12th, we got humiliated 6-4 by Barrow at Holker Street. Campbell scored in the 2nd, slotting in James Byrne’s pass. Tioffo made it 2-0 in the 22nd, tapping in Grace’s cross. Anthony Tierney pulled one back in the 35th, heading in Harrison Mole’s delivery. Grace restored our two-goal lead in the 37th, nodding in Liam Smith’s cross, but Jacub Thornley hit back in the 43rd, slotting in Jacub Putman’s pass. Jonal Anderson levelled in the 49th, tapping in Alezandro Da Silva’s cross. Scott Smith put us ahead in the 50th, volleying a loose ball, but Tierney equalised in the 63rd, heading in Beckham Dunmore’s cross. Thornley gave Barrow the lead in the 67th, rifling a 20-yard shot, and Tierney’s 70th-minute tap-in from Da Silva’s pass sealed our embarrassment. I was livid - how do you concede four in 27 minutes?

On the 15th, we collapsed 4-1 to Keighley United at Marley Stadium, and Omar Daley fractured his finger, ruling him out for another month. Brandon Farmer scored in the 27th, slotting in Leighton Payton’s pass. Wayne Easton equalised in the 61st, tapping in Šestan’s cutback, but Farmer ran riot, scoring in the 74th, 82nd and 90th.

On the 18th, we drew 3-3 with Darlington at Blackwell Meadows. Daniel Ramos scored in the 49th, heading in António Oliveira’s cross. O’Sullivan equalised in the 60th, nodding in Campbell’s cross. Belinga put us ahead in the 68th, slotting in Scott Smith’s pass, but Matt Morris levelled in the 72nd, tapping in a loose ball, and Hari Hill’s 78th-minute penalty put Darlington ahead. Jacob Lloyd rescued a point in the 80th, heading in a loose ball.

On the 22nd, we won 2-1 at North Shields’ Ralph Gardner Park. Alan Craven scored in the 36th, heading in Enock Liddicott’s cross. Campbell equalised in the 63rd, tapping in Tioffo’s pass, and Joe Snow’s own goal in the 72nd, deflecting a Liam Smith cross, gave us the win.

Boxing Day brought a 1-0 win over Guiseley at Forge Road, Belinga converting a 37th-minute penalty after a handball.

On the 29th, we lost 2-1 to Whickham at home. Ayrton Sheron scored twice, in the 2nd and 17th, both tap-ins from crosses. Burrows pulled one back in the 37th, heading in Campbell’s cross, but we couldn’t find a leveller.

January started with a gutting 2-1 loss to Millwall in the FA Cup Third Round at Forge Road on the 5th. Over 7,000 fans, including 1,500 from Millwall, set a club record with £120,000 in gate receipts. Burrows gave us a dream lead in the 19th, heading in Kareem Hassan-Smith’s cross, but Carlos Alexandre’s 31st-minute penalty and Graham Hughes’ 73rd-minute strike from a quick free kick killed our cup run.

On the 12th, we played out a dire 0-0 draw with Buxton at The Silverlands.

On the 19th, we beat Runcorn Linnets 3-1 at Forge Road. Callum Lewis scored for them in the 12th, tapping in a loose ball. Liam Smith equalised in the 22nd, heading in Burrows’ cross. Šestan’s 76th-minute penalty and O’Sullivan’s 77th-minute tap-in from Belinga’s pass sealed it.

On the 26th, we stunned Abacus Media 2-0 at Brookburn Road. O’Sullivan scored in stoppage time, heading in Campbell’s cross, and Šestan’s 70th-minute penalty after a foul on Tioffo wrapped it up.

---

The league table shows Abacus Media leading with 63 points, followed by Barrow on 62, Spennymoor Town on 61, Irlam Steel Rangers on 59 and Sir Tom Finney 52 in the play-offs.

Keighley United have 49, we’re 7th on 42, tied with Consett. Darlington have 41, North Shields 39, Prescot Cables and Washington 38, Buxton 37, Whickham 36, Sheffield and Runcorn Linnets 35.

Bradford Park Avenue and Hyde United have 30, Hoole United 29, Guiseley 26, Hanley Town 25, and Warrington Town 16 are bottom.

---