The Shots hit the road for the final time in the 2025/26 Enterprise National League campaign as they look to take on Brackley Town at St. James Park on Saturday. With the Shots securing safety and Brackley being mathematically relegated as of last weekend, both sides will be relieved of any pressure that may have been building over the last few weeks and look to put on a performance for nothing but the enjoyment of the fans.
Established in 1890, Brackley Town have consistently climbed the football pyramid to reach the Enterprise National League, the highest division the club has ever been in. Aside from League success, the club won the FA Trophy back in 2018, making Saturday’s game a battle of the victors after the Shots memorable triumph in the same competition last year.
The Saints home ground, St. James Park, is actually one of three St James Park stadiums in the UK, with the others housing both Newcastle United and Exeter City. While not as globally famous as the Newcastle version, the St James Park that the Shots will be visiting for the first time in their history is a historic and well renowned lower league stadium, housing 3,500 fans.
RECENT FORM
The Saints have been off the boil during the run in to the ned of the season, having taken just two points in their last six games. Some tough games against league leaders York City as well as play-off members Scunthorpe resulted in unfortunate defeats, and with just two goals scored, both coming in separate 1-1 draws at home, it hasn’t been quite the end to the campaign that the club was hoping for.
11th Apr – Scunthorpe 1 – 0 Brackley
6th Apr – Brackley 1 – 1 Boston
3rd Apr – Forest Green 4 – 0 Brackley
28th Mar – Brackley 0 – 1 Tamoworth
24th Mar – Brackley 1 – 1 Braintree
21st Mar – York 4 – 0 Brackley
PREVIOUS MEETINGS AND REVERSE FIXTURE
The Shots have faced off against the Saints only once in recent history, meaning there could be many secrets in store for the second meeting on Saturday. The previous encounter ended in a 2-2 draw back in September, in what was an eventful affair. Josh Barrett opened the scoring just before half time, but a red card for the Shots and a subsequent penalty meant it was a shaky last twenty minutes where the Shots were able to rescue a point late on.
IN THE DUGOUT
Andy Whing is the current man in charge at Brackley Town, having taken over in February earlier this year following the departure of Gavin Cowan.
Whing arrived at St. James Park with a strong reputation at National League level. During his time with Solihull Moors, he guided the club to the National League play-off final and the FA Trophy final in 2024, narrowly missing out on both occasions. This time with Brackley he will for sure be hoping to go all the way and take home some silverware at some point during his tenure.
Known for his organised and competitive sides, Whing typically sets his teams up to be difficult to break down while remaining dangerous on the counter-attack and from set plays. His tactics will be something for the Shots to bear in mind as they try not to let frustration creep in as the game progresses.
KEY PLAYERS TO WATCH
Connor Hall (Forward)
A physical and athletic striker, Hall provides a focal point in attack. His ability to hold the ball up and bring others into play makes him a key outlet, while his presence is a constant threat in the box. With 9 goals in all competitions, he is Brackley’s top scorer this season and a danger to watch out for.
Scott Pollock (Midfield)
A creative midfielder with energy and technical quality, Pollock is capable of unlocking defences with his passing and movement. He also contributes goals from midfield, making him one of Brackley’s most influential creative players.
TICKET INFO
Tickets for the Shots’ trip to St. James Park on Saturday, 18th April can be bought online by clicking HERE.
PLEASE NOTE ticket prices will increase by £2 on matchday. To get the best price please purchase in advance.
Ticket prices are as follows:
ADULT – £18.00
CONCESSION – £13.00
U18 – £8.00
U16 – FREE (With full paying adult ticket ONLY)
U14 – £3.00
Travelling support will be situated in the Tag Stand and the Ox7 stand, where seated tickets will be available. The away end can be accessed via turnstiles T1, T2 and T3 and toilets and refreshments will be available inside the turnstiles.
Parking is available on site for supporters travelling by car. The closest train station is Kings Sutton Station approximately 6 miles from the ground.
St. James Park, Brackley, NN13 7EJ
IF YOU CAN’T MAKE IT
Live updates will be available from our social media platforms X (@OfficialShots), Instagram (@aldershottownfcofficial), and Facebook. After the game, highlights will be available on our YouTube channel.
The game can be streamed for overseas viewers via DAZN’s National League TV coverage. Click HERE to purchase a match pass.
There will be live commentary of the game provided by BBC Radio Surrey
