RICKY Johnson’s 90th-minute header earned Banbury United a dramatic 1-0 victory at home to St Ives Town.

Puritans goalkeeper Jack Harding also saved a second-half penalty in the Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division clash.

The victory keeps Banbury sixth in the table, but they remain eight points adrift of the play-offs having played more games than their rivals.

Mike Ford’s side enjoyed the better of the early proceedings, with Conor McDonagh twice thwarted by goalkeeper Tim Trebes.

Johnson headed Eddie Odhiambo’s cross wide as the the first half ended goalless.

The home side continued their dominance after the break, with Trebes keeping out a George Nash drive, before Johnson nodded over from close range after the ball was played back into the area.

But on 61 minutes the visitors were presented with a golden opportunity to open the scoring when Nash brought down Danny Kelly in the box.

Harding, though, pulled off an excellent save to deny Josh Dawkin from the penalty spot.

Banbury got back on the front foot, but Trebes continued to frustrate them as he saved Luke Carnell’s glancing header.

They finally broke the deadlock in the last minute when Johnson headed home a Tom Winters cross to the delight of the home fans.

Banbury Utd: Harding, Odhiambo, Bradbury, Nash, Westbrook, Carnell, McEachran, Self, Johnson, McDonagh (Duku 64), Winters. Subs not used: Martin, Humphreys, Smith, Browne.

Attendance: 334.