Fairfield Villa 1 Knowle 2

FAIRFIELD were edged out in a lively encounter on Saturday between two sides will high hopes of a top six finish.ON THE BALL: A Fairfield player tries to get forward.

Villa dominated the second half at the Recreation Ground, but could not find the crucial second goal.

Earlier in the match Fairfield had bounced back from a goal down, when Carl Dainter hit the back of the net.

Despite defeat joint manager Paul Oakes was full of praise for his side.

He said: "It sounds strange but that was our best performance for the last few games.

"We'd been playing badly and getting results, but this time I can't fault the players, they were all excellent."

Villa were trailing after a defensive mix-up allowed Knowle to score early on.

Dainter equaliser from a free kick but Knowle edged ahead on the stroke of half time.

Villa came out determined in the second half and bossed the game.

However, they found Knowle's defence too tough a nut to crack.

Joe Walsh, a recent signing from Alvechurch, carved out the half's best opening. The midfielder drove into the box and nut-megged a defender, which allowed Spencer Kenwood to rifle home the shot. Only for a linesman to flag for offside.

Oakes said: "Neither Joe, or Spencer were off side so it was a frustrating decision that cost us a point.

"But we're still on track to finish in the top six."

Fairfield have also drafted in Rob Walsh from Redditch United.

Villa take on Newhall United at home on Saturday (2pm start).

Martin Townsend misses the game because of injury, while Steve McGlenn is unavailable because of university commitments.