SKIPPER Scott Smith rescued a point for Fairfield Villa this week when he thumped home a fantastic last-ditch shot to salvage a 1-1 draw against Sutton United in Midland League Division Two.

Smith snapped up possession when Sutton failed to clear properly from a corner and skilfully chested down the ball, before firing home in what proved virtually the last kick of the match.

It was no more than Villa deserved after James Wood had walloped a free kick against Sutton's crossbar while Dan Wilkes fired against the post before half time.

Connor Collins also hit the post after the break as Sutton's goal led a charmed life.

But it wasn't one way traffic as goalkeeper Chris Mole had to pull off a couple of top class saves to keep Sutton at bay.

Villa spokesman Paul Oakes insisted: "It was a game we should have won, but we were hit by a number of late cry-offs and we finished up with just 12 players to select from.

"Manager Wayne Davis was left to plug the gaps with several players appearing out of position.

"It was particularly disappointing that a number of players were unavailable through work and family commitments as we reach the business end of the season and it's beginning to look as though a top two finish is now beyond us."

Villa look to bounce back this Saturday when they visit Hampton in a Midland League match.