Beat the rain- again

 11 February 2026, Kidlington 1 North Greenford Utd 1 - Combine Counties, Premier Division, North, Yarnton Rd

Think even Kidlington were surprised that this game passed a pitch inspection- however even with a bit more rain, pitch stood up well and a few players got cramp. due to heavy pitch only person who really suffered was the ref- who only lasted till half time!

The visitors took an early lead after just two minutes and seemed to work out how to get by on a heavy pitch quicker than the hosts - quick fast ball over the top was causing Kidlington issues every time whilst Kidlington had plenty of the ball but could not make much from it.

Second half saw Kidlington improve, and create a number of chances and again they had most of the ball. North Greenford, seemed happy to sit back and soak up the pressure, Kidlington hit the post from a header late on and it looked like the visitors would escape with the 3 points but in the 86th minute, Kidlington won a penalty and a well taken spot kick, ensured the points were shared. Quite a bit of injury time with North Greenford on top- maybe they should have been more positive in the in the second half earlier on and they would have added to their opening goal.

Very basic ground, but does the job- very surprised to read that it had hosted Step 4 football last season.