Ardley United took over at the top of the Uhlsport Hellenic League Premier Division for the first time this season after a hard-fought 1-0 win at second-placed Wantage Town on Saturday.

A goal from Ollie Stan-bridge earned Kevin Brock’s side the points.

Ardley nearly paid the price for a slow start, but Harry Halls fired over.

At the other end, Ryan Brooks and Ben Thomas went close before the former saw his shot deflect away off keeper Lewis Noice’s boot.

Early in the second half, substitute Adam Beckett broke through, but his shot was cleared.

However, it was Beckett who helped create the winner.

His long throw was flicked on at the near post and Stanbridge’s overhead kick flew past a helpless Noice.

Wantage tried to force a leveller, but Ardley held firm.

On Saturday, Ardley host Shrivenham.