By John Baron
Troubled Farsley Celtic were relegated from National League North after a spirited 3-1 loss against Oxford City – their 13th consecutive defeat.
Goals from top scorer Zac McEachran, defender Phil Croker and Josh Ashby sealed the win for the visitors in a game once again played at Buxton’s due to delays in installing a new pitch at The Citadel.
Farsley’s goal came from a spectacular long-distance strike from the outstanding Joao Silva – only their sixth goal in 17 games in 2025.
The young Farsley side acquitted themselves well and had the better of the first 20 minutes, with David Stockdale’s young guns applying themselves well.
Cole Hyde’s early shot from a narrow angle went into the hands of Oxford goalkeeper Laurie Whitwell. And shortly afterwards Manny Mampala attempted to curl in a free kick from 20 yards – with Oxford’s keeper scrambling the ball away.
Farsley striker Justin Iwobi then blazed over following a lay off from Dylan Youmbi.
But it was Oxford who took the lead. Seconds after a mighty goalmouth scramble, the visitors recycled the ball to Zac McEachran who found the corner with a crisp finish.
Oxford then started to get on top, but Farsley went close again just before half time, only for Joao Silva’s stunning half volley ruled out for offside.
The Celts found themselves two down shortly after the break, Phil Croker with a free header at the front post to double their lead.
Within a minute Farsley were back in it – Joao Silva unleashing an unstoppable strike from distance into the top corner.
On 58 minutes Lewis Coyle delivered a dangerous low ball which Farsley’s Cole Hyde narrowly diverted just outside the post and behind for a corner. Ten minutes later McEachran’s effort was blocked on the line bay a Farsley defender.
Farsley kept plugging away and looked threatening at times, but the game slipped away 18 minutes from time when Josh Ashby fired in from close range.
Farsley were dealt a blow when keeper Will Brook was injured in the warm up, which restricted his kicking and movement all game.
As the final whistle blew, Farsley’s time in the National League North officially came to an end – although regular supporters were predicting back in December that the club was heading for relegation.
As the final whistle blew Farsley’s fate was confirmed. On a sad night it’s important to praise to this group of young lads and their manager for giving their all and putting some pride back in the Farsley shirt.
Not only have they helped keep the club going in difficult off-field circumstances, they’ve given beleaguered Farsley fans some cause for optimism as the club prepares for life in the Northern Premier League next season.