There were positives for manager Jon Brady, particularly in the first half when his side enjoyed good control and created the better chances. However, Patrick Brough and Tyreece Simpson both hit the woodwork early on and Stevenage turned the tide in the second half, with Carl Piergianni smuggling home an 81st minute winner. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields...
5. Akin Odimayo
He pushed high and wide at times but had the dynamism to get up and down. His use of the ball was mixed though and didn't reappear for the second half... 6 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Patrick Brough
Nearly had the perfect start to his Cobblers career when he charged through on goal. Did brilliantly to create the opening but was denied by Ashby-Hammond's sharp reflexes. Looked good in possession and pushed forward from wing-back. There were one or two teething issues between him and Monthé in Town's left channel... 6.5 Photo: Pete Norton
7. Jack Sowerby
Combined really nicely with Leonard to give Cobblers control in the first half. Excellent dart through the middle could easily have resulted in a penalty. He's not played 90 minutes in pre-season so it was no surprise that he tired late on... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Marc Leonard
Very classy performance for an hour. Popped up all over the pitch and had way more touches and passes than any other player. Best moment was a lovely clipped ball that released Simpson for a good chance. Nearly salvaged a point when his stoppage-time free-kick landed inches wide... 7.5 Photo: Pete Norton