FAIRFIELD Villa's title hopes took a tumble when losing 2-0 to Knowle in Midland League Division Two.

The result means Villa have fallen 10 points adrift of leaders Droitwich Spa, but still have three games in hand.

Villa spokesman Paul Oakes said: "We had a three week lay-off which didn't do us any favours but we also changed the system to 3-5-2 which clearly didn't work.

"We also contrived to miss a number of openings, while Knowle took there's."

Villa have a local derby on their hands this Saturday when they make the short trip to Redditch United's ground to take on a Redditch Borough side who have moved right behind Villa in the league table to fourth place.

Paul Oakes added: "We've bounced back from previous defeats and there's no reason why we can't do the same."