NORTH Berks League Division 1 leaders Berinsfield bowed out of the Oxfordshire Intermediate Cup with a 1-0 semi-final defeat at Uhlsport Hellenic League side Heyford Athletic, writes RICHARD UNDERWOOD.

The league fixtures were all cancelled due to concerns about the coronavirus outbreak, but the OFA competition continued – although the subsequent halt to proceedings means it is unclear when the final will be played.

On a poor pitch, Heyford produced the first chance when Steve Gardner ran on to a through ball, but his effort was saved low down by keeper Mark Ingram.

Moments later, Dan Savin was denied by a fine

last-ditch challenge by visiting defender Joe Bennett.

At the other end, Brian Rawlings went close when he curled a shot just wide from outside the box.

Heyford’s Savin missed a glorious chance to put his side in front when he curled a shot wide with only Ingram to beat.

Berinsfield ended the half strongly, home keeper Steve Lewis tipping a fierce David Murphy free-kick over the crossbar.

After the break, Heyford went close again when Gardner found Steve Roberts, but Ingram saved.

With ten minutes left, Heyford finally broke the deadlock when substitute Callum Lloyd put over a low cross which found Roberts, who tapped in from close range.

Although Berinsfield pushed for an equaliser, Heyford held on to book their place in the final.

They will face Headington Amateurs, who beat Chinnor 3-0 in their clash.

Olly Zaja opened the scoring with a 35th-minute minute penalty, before Joel Gill’s header made it 2-0 shortly after the break.

Substitute Jack Hayhurst added a third late on.