ARDLEY United completed their Uhlsport Hellenic League home campaign with a thumping 4-1 victory over title favourites Bracknell Town on Tuesday, writes Dale James.

This result swings the Premier Division title race in favour of Thame United, who beat Tuffley Rovers 2-1 to establish a five-point lead over Bracknell, who finished the game with nine men.

Paul Davis’ side defended an early onslaught, with several good saves from Nick Bennion keeping the visitors at bay.

Ardley took the lead after 14 minutes through a rasping drive from Matt Cruse from the edge of the box.

Bracknell levelled in the 34th minute. Bennion blocked the original shot, but Adam Cornell was on hand to tap home the rebound.

Cruse doubled his tally three minutes before half-time, when he converted an inviting cross with a powerful shot.

Ardley made it 3-1 on the hour. Troy Bryan, who had just come on as a substitute, headed home after Cruse’s shot came off the underside of the bar.

As Bracknell complained to the officials about the goal, Jamie McClure was shown a second yellow card and sent off.

With two minutes left, Declan Benjamin was floored by a tackle.

In the flare-up that followed, Bracknell skipper Carl Davies was shown a straight red card for violent conduct.

As the visitors tried to push forward, gaps were left in behind and a ball over the top saw Bryan race away to fire past Chris Grace to put the game to bed.

Ardley Utd: Bennion, Cray, Tappin, Meade, Jackson, Cox, Cruse, Benjamin (Freshwater 92), Howards, Ross (Guerrero 91), Lewars (Bryan 59). Subs not used: Eyles, McEachran.

Attendance: 92.