A dramatic finale at St. James Park saw Brackley Town snatch a late draw against Scunthorpe United in a match characterised by its intensity and tactical adjustments. Referee Callum Walchester oversaw the tightly contested affair, which concluded with a 1-1 scoreline, a result that will sting for Scunthorpe, who had held the lead for a significant portion of the second half.
The first half was a cautious affair, marked by a series of yellow cards. Scunthorpe’s Joseph Starbuck was the first to be cautioned, followed shortly by his teammate, Joe Rowley. Brackley’s Ryan Haynes and Zak Brown also received yellow cards before the break, highlighting the fiercely contested midfield battle. In the 38th minute, Brackley manager Gavin Cowan made an early tactical change, replacing Haynes with Riccardo Calder.
The second half continued in a similar vein, with Gareth Dean and Matt Lowe of Brackley, along with Scunthorpe’s Andrew Boyce and Oliver Ewing, all receiving cautions. The match took a decisive turn in the 73rd minute when Scunthorpe were awarded a penalty. Daniel Whitehall converted the spot-kick, putting the Iron ahead.
Just three minutes later, Scunthorpe’s Starbuck received his second yellow card for a late challenge and was sent off, reducing his team to ten men. Brackley immediately capitalised, making a double substitution in the 74th minute, introducing Danny Waldron and Bailey Hobson.
As the game entered its final stages, Scunthorpe manager Andy Butler looked to solidify his defence, bringing on Jean Belehouan and Kian Scales. Tyler Denton and Carlton Ubaezuonu were also shown yellow cards as Scunthorpe fought to preserve their narrow lead.
However, Brackley’s persistence paid off in the 98th minute when substitute Danny Waldron, assisted by Zak Lilley, scored, sending the home supporters into raptures and securing a point for the Saints.
The draw leaves Scunthorpe United in 6th position with 11 points, while Brackley Town sit in 10th place with 8 points.