FAIRFIELD Villa were knocked out of the Presidents Cup on Saturday as Sutton United got their revenge with a 2-1 win in the opening round.
After defeating United 3-1 in the Midland Football League Division Two seven days earlier, the hosts would have been looking to do the league and cup double over their opponents.
And they got off to a bright start as Connor Collins was twice denied after the visiting keeper made two fine saves.
It was no surprise when Villa eventually went ahead following good work from John Pykett. The striker sent in a cross for Ellis Blakemore to slot home.
The home side could have gone further in front when the same combination presented Blakemore with an even easier chance. But this time, he failed to hit the target.
This proved to be a turning point in the match as the visitors got back on level terms just before the break. With their first meaningful attack of the opening 45 minutes, United worked the ball into the box before firing it past keeper Aaron Collins.
The second half was a more even affair with both sides having opportunities to score. But unfortunately for Villa, it was the away side which made it 2-1.
Fairfield tried to find a response, but Sutton’s defence did enough to see out the win. Their performance, however, was marred by a nasty knee injury to one of their players, which forced the game to be held up for 12 minutes before he was taken off the field on a stretcher.
Fairfield return to league action on Saturday with a trip to Leicester Road.
