Rugby Utd 0, Banbury Utd 1: Howard Forinton's first-half strike gave Banbury United three precious points in their battle against fellow strugglers Rugby United in the Southern League Premier Division on Saturday.

Forinton struck in the 43rd minute when he smashed the ball home from just inside the penalty area after Rugby only half-cleared Chris Jackson's curling free-kick.

The win maintained Banbury's seven-point cushion over Hemel Hempstead Town, who occupy the fourth relegation spot, although the Hertfordshire club have two games in hand.

Banbury had started brightly, and it took a great save from keeper Robert Beckwith to keep out a shot from Ollie Stanbridge.

Rugby had a good chance midway through the first half when they were awarded a free-kick five yards outside the penalty area.

But Simon Tricker was perfectly placed to catch Robbie Beard's well-struck shot.

Wayne Blossom also went close for Banbury with a header over the bar, before Forinton fired the visitors ahead.

Rugby stepped up a gear in the second half and pushed Banbury back in their own half for prolonged periods.

But the visitors' defence was well-marshalled by skipper Kieran Sullivan.

Tricker made a superb save from Rory Squire, tipping the ball over the bar, with the home side already celebrating what they thought was a certain goal.

Late on, Tricker watched an over-hit cross from Jamie Williams hit the angle of post and bar.

And Banbury had another scare deep into injury time when Justin Marsden set off on a brilliant run before lobbing Tricker only to see his effort bounce off the top of the bar.

Banbury Utd: Tricker, Fuller, Burnham, Sullivan, Essex (Mackay 85), Robinson (McKay 45), Stanbridge (Pond 72), Blossom, Forinton, Redknap, Jackson. Subs not used: O,Neill, Potter.

Attendance: 305.