Saras sunk by promotion rivals

CHELTENHAM Saracens fell to their second defeat of the season as Clanfield 85 claimed a 2-1 Hellenic League One West victory at the DN Fire Stadium.

Goals from Adam Pendall and Nathan Kimber completed the win for Clanfield.

Saracens went into the game with a perfect record at home, but Clanfield - the league’s in-form side showed early signs of an upset as Connor Tinsley’s shot was saved by Matthew Barnard at his near post.

Chisom Obi was a danger to in the Clanfield defence all afternoon, and his energy in the wide areas carved out the first chance for the hosts, but Harlie Price’s finish lacked the conviction to trouble Jamie Zoldan.

The hosts continued to threaten but failed to test Zoldan once more, this time with Josh Coakley making hash of his opportunity.

But Saracens did break the deadlock, Price netting his 23rd in 22 appearances this term, firing his long ranged effort past Zoldan.

Clanfiield continued to penetrate on the flanks, a Tinsley cross leaving Barnard was left stranded on his goalline but no attackers gambled on the quality of the cross.

But Saracens did not wise up to the relentless threat and a deep cross from a freekick landed on the head of captain Pendell, who nodded in to equal the scores before the break.

Saracens squandered chances in an enthralling second half, Kimber won the game for Clanfield, who leapfrog Saracens into second place.

After Barnard made a reflex save to deny Fullerton from close range, the ball fell to Kimber outside the box, and without a second invitation, he struck low with his stronger left foot to send the away bench into raptures.