First team manager Phil Lines has moved swiftly to sign experienced Hellenic League player Darren Beckett (pictured) from Ardley United and Beckett goes straight into the squad to play against Cirencester Town Development tomorrow.

Phil Lines is delighted with the signing as he believes he will add real quality to the squad for the coming season. Lines commented, " Darren will be a terrific signing for Sports this year. We have a young squad who are keen to do well, but alongside Ben Milner and Craig Pearman, we will now have good experience throughout the spine of our side which will help bring the younger players on. Darren is just what we need and will prove to be a calming influence after playing at the top of the Hellenic Premier for over 10 years."

Former youth team player Harry Walters has also put pen to paper this week. He still has a number of cricket matches for Cropredy 1st team but will continue to train until he is available for action. The former Wycombe Wanders youth team player will continue to provide competition which is exactly what Lines wants this season. " We are determined to work with players who are only committed to the cause this season. We want consistency and want reliable players who are keen to better themselves as we look to build a young team of Banbury lads capable of competing at the top of this league. We will continue to work hard to add more quality to the squad if a player becomes available".

Looking ahead to the weekend, ESFC 1sts are away to Cirencester Town development whilst the reserves have their second home match of the season against Bourton Rovers. Both matches kick off at 3.00pm

The first team will be without Danny Poole, Connor Grant, Ben Milner and Josh Northam this week although Terry Fitton and assistant manager Craig Pearman return to the squad.