A scrappy New Year’s Day contest at Sixfields against resurgent Cheltenham Town was decided by Bowie’s well-taken spot-kick after he was hauled down inside the penalty box. Cobblers weren’t at their fluent best but defended well and dug in to continue their impressive recent form. Here are our player ratings from Sixfields…
5. Patrick Brough
Limited as an attacking outlet but defended well enough on a largely quiet afternoon. Put sufficient pressure on Lloyd to force him to miss the target when presented with perhaps Cheltenham's best chance... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
6. Marc Leonard
Took on Sowerby's role in the first half when he dropped between the centre-backs and tried to find a way through Cheltenham instead of over them. That wasn't working though and he got far more joy when shifted further forward in the second half. He played every minute of all four games over Christmas, a hugely impressive effort... 7 Photo: Pete Norton
7. Shaun McWilliams
Not his fault but neither team could find any fluency in a disjointed and untidy first half and he only lasted eight minutes of the second, during which time he volleyed narrowly over... 6.5 Photo: Pete Norton
8. Will Hondermarck
Had another good game in midfield to back up his efforts at Lincoln. Got stuck in and didn't shy away from the scrap in a bitty contest. Embarked on one or two of his scything forward forays that dragged Cobblers up the pitch... 7 Photo: Pete Norton