Solihull Moors clinched a narrow victory over Brackley Town at Damson Park, a result that could prove crucial as the season unfolds. In a closely contested match where clear chances were scarce, Dan Creaney’s late goal proved the difference between the two sides.
The first half saw both teams struggling to establish control, with a particularly intense midfield battle. Alex Whitmore of Solihull Moors received a yellow card in the 25th minute for a mistimed challenge, underscoring the combative nature of the early exchanges. Brackley’s Kyle Morrison was similarly cautioned just before the interval, also for a foul, as referee Neil Hair maintained a watchful eye. Neither side managed to create any significant openings, and the half concluded goalless, leaving the supporters anticipating more excitement in the second half.
Brackley Town manager Gavin Cowan sought to inject fresh impetus into his team early in the second half, making a double substitution in the 53rd and 59th minutes respectively. Connor Hall was replaced by Bailey Hobson, and Justin Donawa made way for Miracle Okafor, a forward for defender switch, as Brackley aimed to shift the game’s momentum. Solihull Moors responded with a substitution of their own in the 68th minute, Tyler French making way for Oscar Rutherford. As the game progressed, both sides continued to adjust their lineups, searching for the elusive breakthrough. Solihull Moors introduced Callum McFarlane for Darius Lipsiuc in the 77th minute, while Brackley brought on Danny Waldron for Zak Brown in the 83rd minute, but neither substitution immediately bore fruit.
The decisive moment finally arrived in the 81st minute when Dan Creaney found the net, sending the home support into jubilation, but also earning himself a yellow card in the process. With time dwindling, Solihull Moors sought to solidify their advantage, replacing Jacob Wakeling with Oliver Tipton in the 87th minute to strengthen their defence.
The final whistle confirmed a hard-earned 1-0 victory for Solihull Moors. The win elevates them to 16th in the National League standings, with 13 points from 12 games, distancing them from the relegation zone. Brackley Town, who entered the game undefeated in their last four matches, remain in 11th place with 16 points, having missed an opportunity to ascend further up the table.
