Josh Tomlinson scored twice, including a 70th-minute winner, as Brackley Town beat South Shields 3-2 to climb out of the National League North relegation zone. The victory on Tuesday night moved the Saints up to 19th place, giving them 12 points from their opening 10 games.
Tahvon Campbell opened the scoring for Brackley Town after 10 minutes, with Tomlinson adding a second in the 18th minute. South Shields fought back to level through Paul Blackett and Cameron Scott, but Tomlinson struck again to secure a key three points. The result ended a run of two consecutive league defeats and provided a significant morale boost.
Manager's reaction
Manager Gareth Dean told reporters the performance set a new standard. He described South Shields as a benchmark team and suggested any side capable of matching them would be in the title conversation. Dean highlighted the team's discipline, organisation, and collective grit as key factors in the win.
He reserved special praise for match-winner Josh Tomlinson, calling the 20-year-old a real threat and noting his significant physical presence. Dean said he sees huge potential in the summer signing from Northampton Town and that the coaching staff are excited to help him develop further as a player.
Recent form and next fixture
The win, which follows a 1-1 draw with Scarborough Athletic, means Brackley Town have taken four points from their last two league matches. This recent form has lifted the team out of the bottom four. The squad now turns its attention to the FA Cup, with a third qualifying round tie at home to Chelmsford City scheduled for this Saturday. Manager Gareth Dean will be hoping the momentum from this key league victory can propel the team forward in the cup competition.
Turning a corner
The win represents a tangible shift after a difficult start to the campaign. Under previous management, Brackley Town had won just two of their first eight league matches. The recent 1-1 draw with Scarborough Athletic and this victory over a strong South Shields side suggest Dean's methods are taking hold. With the squad showing renewed belief, the focus is on building consistency and moving up the standings.
Further reading: northamptonchron.co.uk
Brackley Town host Chelmsford City in the FA Cup third qualifying round on Saturday, October 3. The match kicks off at 14:00 UTC. The Saints, 19th in the National League North with 12 points from 10 games, enter the cup tie on the back of a 3-2 league win over South Shields on September 29.
On October 2, South Shields confirmed the 3-2 defeat to Brackley Town in a statement on their club website. The Mariners noted their equaliser came from Cedwyn Scott in the 64th minute, correcting the existing report. South Shields stated Scott pounced on a Harrison Rhone spill to score. The club also confirmed the attendance at Hayden Road as 578, with 37 away supporters. Brackley Town, 19th in the National League North with 12 points, next host Spennymoor Town on October 10.
