THE whole of the Premier Division separates the two sides, so Wokingham & Emmbrook FC can be proud of their efforts to restrict Kidlington to just a 1-0 win on Tuesday night, writes Dave Wright.

The Hellenic League champions-elect dominated the game and on another occasion would have scored a hatful of goals as they continue their relentless quest for the title.

But Sumas battled for all their worth, with keeper Sean Woodward producing another magnificent performance. When he was beaten, the woodwork came to his rescue to frustrate the home side.

Lady Luck was certainly shining on them at Yarnton Road, but Wokingham have not enjoyed too much good fortune this season.

With two early efforts hitting the woodwork and Woodward soon in action, Kidlington laid siege to the Sumas’ goal and it seemed only a matter of time before they would take the lead.

The visitors did make the occasional breakaway and Sam Bateman headed over the bar while Luke Scope hit a left-footer against the woodwork.

Wokingham continued to frustrate the Oxfordshire side in the second half with the post again coming to their rescue.

But the relentless pressure finally paid off in the 77th minute when the ball was deflected into the path of substitute Jimmy Deabill, who made no mistake.

Woodward pulled off three saves in quick succession before Elliott Rushforth went close to snatching a shock equaliser.

Joint manager Dan Bateman said: “All you can ask is your team give you everything. Today they did that and narrowly lost to the champions in waiting.”

Fellow manager Matt Eggleston played the last 16 minutes after coming off the subs bench.

Wokingham are away to Highmoor Ibis on Saturday in the last Hellenic League match to be played at Palmer Park before Marcus Richardson’s men switch to the old Reading Town ground in Scours Lane (3pm).

Bracknell Town, who squandered a host of chances when losing 3-0 at Kidlington on Saturday, were held to a 2-2 draw at Highworth Town on Tuesday.

The Robins took a 16th-minute lead through in-form Adam Cornell and Seb Bowerman produced a tidy finish to make it 2-0 just before half-time.

But they were unable to hang on to their advantage and conceded two goals in the last 10 minutes.

The Robins remain 14th in the table with four games remaining, starting against Longlevens at Larges Lane on Saturday (3pm).

Binfield, seeking a top six finish, will look to follow up their 4-1 win at Highmoor Ibis on Monday when they visit Brimscombe & Thrupp this Saturday (3pm).

Manager Roger Herridge said: “Our away form is good, so we will be going there looking for three more points.”

Liam Ferdinand is set to return after being away on holiday in the US, but fellow striker Jemel Johnson could remain sidelined through injury.

The Moles then visit fourth-placed Ascot United at The Racecourse Ground on Monday (7.45pm).

They are seeking a quick double after hammering the Yellamen 4-0 at home last week with recent signing Toby Nowell scoring twice.

Herridge said the striker, who usually plays for Woodcote Stoke Row in the Thames Valley League, could also feature in the return game.

Ascot United are home to Brackley Town Saints on Saturday (3pm).