CONOR McDonagh’s second-half goal gave in-form Banbury United a 1-0 victory away to Kings Langley on Saturday.

It is a victory that takes boss Mike Ford’s team to within two points of the final play-off position in the Premier Division.

The visitors dominated from the start and in the ninth minute Luke Carnell’s header was knocked away for a corner by the Kings Langley keeper Xavi Comas.

Later in the first half, he did well to halt Zac McEachran’s low shot.

At the other end, Ryan Plowright fired a good chance wide just before the break.

Banbury upped a gear in the last half-hour.

First, Puritans’ morning signing James Smith, from West Bromwich Albion, set up McDonagh, who was denied by the keeper.

However, in the 70th minute, Banbury made the breakthrough when McEachran put McDonagh through on the left.

He advanced to just inside the penalty area before striking the ball across the keeper and into the far corner of the net.

Four minutes from time, Banbury went close to doubling their lead when Smith’s shot was well saved.

The loose ball rebounded to Jack Self who shot over.

Banbury defended well to keep a sixth successive clean sheet to hold on to the points.

Banbury Utd: Harding, Westbrook,Gunn, Nash, Carnell, Self, White, Humphreys (Smith 59), McDonagh (Ofosu 77), McEachran (E Odhiambo 89), Martin. Subs not used: Bell, Browne.

Attendance:152.