Banbury Utd 1, Hemel Hempstead Tn 3

SIX games ago, Banbury were poised to enter the play-offs, and were the top scorers in the Premier Division.

But after a disastrous run of six straight defeats, in which they have scored one goal, they are now poised just above the relegation zone, and wondering where the next points are coming from.

This is with a squad that is unchanged from the one that was riding high so recently.

Hit by the late withdrawal of Andy Baird for personal reasons against Hemel Hempstead on Saturday, George Redknap deputised up front, and was easily their best outfield player.

He showed his usual 100 per cent effort and commitment and, with a bit more luck, could have scored more than his solitary goal.

Hemel played some superb football, and but for some fine saves by veteran keeper Alan Judge, would have scored more than three goals.

Anthony Thomas put them in front in the fifth minute, giving the stranded Judge no chance.

The visitors increased their lead in the 19th minute from a counter-attack on the right. Thomas turned provider as his cross was hit home at the near post by Dean Brennan.

Banbury almost scored, but Howard Forinton's header from a free-kick landed on the top netting, with keeper Jamie Jackson well beaten.

In the 54th minute, the hosts pulled a goal back when Redknap capitalised on a weak clearance to hit a low half-volley shot from 20 yards into the bottom corner of the net.

Banbury moved forward with more purpose as they looked for an equaliser.

But they left themselves a little exposed at the back, and in the 62nd minute, Hemel again counter- attacked.

This time, Sinclair slotted the ball home from the right into the far corner of the net, again giving Judge no chance.

Banbury will need to play better than this if they are not to be dragged into the relegation scrap.

Banbury: Judge, Robinson, Kinch, Sullivan, Blossom (Jackson 77), Pond, Stanbridge, Lamb, Forinton, Redknap, Gardner (Bridges 66). Sub not used. Baird.

Attendance: 347.