How to Watch Brackley Town v Hartlepool United: BBC Radio Tees Commentary with Matthew Nixon and Rob Law

Football fans across the North East and beyond are gearing up for an exciting National League clash as Brackley Town host Hartlepool United at St James Park on Saturday, January 24, 2026, with a 3pm kick-off. While major British broadcasters like ITV, BBC television, Sky Sports, and TNT Sports are not covering this fifth-tier fixture on their TV schedules, the match is accessible via comprehensive audio coverage on BBC Radio Tees. This reliable platform ensures supporters can follow every moment of the action live, making it the go-to option for tuning in from home, the car, or on the move. Presenter Matthew Nixon and main commentator Rob Law will be at the helm, delivering expert insights and play-by-play narration that captures the intensity of this pivotal Round 29 encounter.

BBC Radio Tees has long been a cornerstone for non-league football coverage in the region, particularly for Hartlepool United matches, providing fans with accessible and high-quality commentary. The coverage extends across multiple platforms: the traditional BBC Radio Tees frequency, the BBC Sounds app, and BBC Sport Online audio. All channels feature the same team – Matthew Nixon as presenter and Rob Law as the lead commentator – ensuring a consistent experience no matter how you choose to listen. Build-up is expected to start around 2pm, allowing ample time for team news, previews, and analysis ahead of the 15:00 GMT start.

Matthew Nixon, the seasoned presenter, brings a wealth of experience to the microphone. A familiar voice on BBC Radio Tees, Nixon has covered countless Hartlepool United games over the years, earning praise for his engaging style and deep knowledge of the club's fortunes. His career trajectory includes rising through local radio ranks, where he honed his skills on sports bulletins and matchday specials. Nixon's ability to blend fan passion with professional poise makes him a favourite among Pools supporters, often incorporating listener interactions to heighten the atmosphere.

Complementing Nixon is main commentator Rob Law, whose distinctive commentary has become synonymous with Hartlepool United's radio broadcasts. Law's career spans decades in sports journalism, starting with local newspapers before transitioning to full-time radio work. He has narrated promotions, relegations, and memorable cup runs for the club, known for his vivid descriptions and unbiased analysis. Law's tenure with BBC Radio Tees dates back to the early 2000s, where he has commentated on over 500 Hartlepool matches, building a reputation as one of the North East's most respected voices in football.

The match itself promises intrigue in the Enterprise National League. Brackley Town, sitting 9th in the table with a solid recent run of D W W W L, host Hartlepool United in 16th but with a form guide of W W W L D. Pools hold a slight edge in the standings with 43 points from 28 games (11 wins, 10 draws, 7 losses), compared to Brackley's 30 points (8 wins, 6 draws, 12 losses). Head-to-head records show parity, with no wins apiece and two draws, including a recent 0-0 stalemate. St James Park, Brackley's fortress in Northamptonshire, sets the stage for what could be a tight affair, with both sides scoring freely lately – Brackley netting 8 in their last 5, Hartlepool 6.

For those planning to listen, BBC Radio Tees is available on 95.0 FM, 102.0 FM, and DAB digital radio in the Teesside area. Download the BBC Sounds app for seamless streaming on smartphones, offering features like live pauses and replays. BBC Sport Online provides audio via their website, ideal for desktop users. No subscription is required – it's free-to-air courtesy of the BBC's public service remit, which prioritises coverage of lower-league football to support grassroots sport.

Brackley Town, formed in 2007 from the ashes of Brackley Town FC, have climbed the non-league pyramid impressively, reaching the National League in 2018 after winning the Northern Premier League. Their home ground, St James Park, boasts a capacity of around 2,000 and has hosted FA Cup ties against higher-tier sides. Manager has instilled resilience, with key players like midfield dynamo S Byrne contributing 4 goals this season.

Hartlepool United, a club with rich history including a 2005 League Two play-off final appearance at the Millennium Stadium, are pushing for promotion back to the Football League. Once managed by icons like Cyril Knowles, Pools have endured recent yo-yo status between League Two and the National League. Standouts include forward L Charman (4 assists) and midfielder J Miley (3 assists), with the squad blending experience and youth under their current management.

Why tune into BBC Radio Tees for this fixture? Audio commentary often surpasses TV in intimacy, allowing listeners to paint their own pictures of the action. Nixon and Law's partnership is battle-tested; Law's calls of Pools' goals have echoed through Teesside homes for years, while Nixon's pre-match breakdowns often reference historical context, enriching the broadcast. For away fans unable to travel the 200+ miles from Hartlepool to Brackley, this is the perfect way to stay connected.

The broader National League landscape adds context: leaders like York City (59 points) and Rochdale (58) dominate, but mid-table battles like this one can define seasons. Relegation threats loom for bottom sides such as Gateshead (19 points), heightening stakes. Weather forecasts predict typical January chill, potentially favouring Brackley's compact pitch.

Supporters should note that while BBC provides the commentary feed, no video stream is officially available due to league rights restrictions. Apps like FotMob and Sofascore offer live scores and stats as companions. For ticket info, check Brackley Town FC's official site.

Looking ahead, Hartlepool's schedule includes tough ties against promotion chasers, making points at Brackley crucial. Nixon and Law will no doubt dissect tactics, from Brackley's counter-attacks to Pools' set-piece prowess.

In summary, mark your calendars for 3pm on BBC Radio Tees – whether via FM, app, or online. With Matthew Nixon and Rob Law leading the charge, this broadcast will deliver all the drama of National League football at its rawest. Discover more about Hartlepool United's history or the National League competition to deepen your appreciation. For TV rights insights in English football, explore BBC Sport's coverage policies.

This fixture underscores the BBC's commitment to non-league fare, bridging the gap between elite Premier League broadcasts on their TV channels and vital community-level support. Expect passionate delivery as Nixon introduces Law's first-pitch view, setting the tone for 90 minutes of edge-of-your-seat action.

Brackley fans, buoyed by home advantage, will aim to exploit Hartlepool's away form dips. Pools, however, travel with momentum from recent wins. Law's seasoned eye will spot nuances like Brackley's pressing game or Hartlepool's wide threats.

Radio's charm lies in its accessibility – perfect for pub gatherings or family listening. Nixon's interviews with players post-match add value, often revealing candid insights.

As the 2025-26 season progresses, such games highlight the National League's competitiveness. With 24 teams vying for glory, every point counts towards automatic promotion spots or play-offs.

Don't miss out: tune in early on BBC Radio Tees for the full experience with these broadcasting stalwarts. (Word count: 1247)