FAIRFORD Town produced a stirring performance of commitment and composure to defeat league leaders Brackley Town Saints on Saturday writes Chris Tanner.

The result lifted the Reds up to 14th in Hellenic Premier Division table, as Jody Bevan’s men made it back to back wins following the midweek triumph at Longlevens.

Bevan handed home debuts to new recruits Danny Gudger and Joe Thomas and the Gloucestershire side made a bright start with the wind at their backs, forcing visiting stopper Ali Worby into several early saves with James Watts also denying the hosts an opener by clearing off the line.

Fairford’s opener arrived on 32 minutes with the predatory instincts of Jon Thomas coming to the fore as he latched onto a long ball through, before finishing well past Worby. The home side continued to press and harry, frustrating the visitors to retain the lead going into the break.

Goalscorer Thomas doubled the Fairford lead on 75 minutes. After his initial shot had struck the woodwork, he reacted first to tuck away the rebound and provide a crucial two-goal cushion.

Fairford stopper Harrison Ellis made a superb save to deny Watts as the visitors piled forward in search of a comeback.

An 85th minute penalty from Ryan Knight reduced the arrears but the home side held on for an impressive victory.

Fairford Town: Ellis; Watson, James, Thomas, Weaven; Beardsell, D Bailey © (Preece ’83), James, Morris; Gudger (C Bailey ’90), Thomas

Substitutes: Hawkins, Oakes, Preece, C Bailey, M Thompson