After the league allocations for the 2026/27 season were confirmed last week, we will be taking a closer look at the new sides entering the Enterprise National League North.
Brackley Town return to the National League North after just one season in the National League. Their relegation was confirmed following a narrow 1-0 defeat away at Scunthorpe United back in April.
The Saints struggled to gain momentum in their only season in the National League, winning just 10 of their games in the league last season. However, Andy Whing will be hoping to guide the Saints back to the fifth tier at the first time of asking.
Whing took over at St James Park in February, following former manager Gavin Cowan’s departure to League Two side Shrewsbury Town. It’s set to be a summer of change for the Northamptonshire-based side with a number of players moving on to pastures new as Whing looks to rebuild the squad ahead of another possible title challenge.
Brackley has a strong history near the top of the National League North, having been involved in many play-off campaigns over the last three seasons.
2022/23 and 2023/24 provided a sucker punch as they fell to defeat in the Promotion Final against Kidderminster Harriers and Boston United in successive seasons.
It was the last time they were in the National League North where they broke their promotion hoodoo, as they secured the title on the final day, pipping both Kidderminster Harriers and Scunthorpe United.
We are looking forward to our first ever visit to St James Park next season.
BRACKLEY TOWN
2025/26 Position: 21st in the Enterprise National League (R)
Nickname: The Saints
Manager: Andy Whing
Previous Meeting: Macclesfield Town 3-2 Brackley Town (FA Cup Second Round – 2013)
Played for Both: Richard Knight (Goalkeeper)
