Stunned by a goal from Elliott Jennings after just 54 seconds, defending league champions Vasco came charging back with three of their own in the second half to hand Village their first league loss in 19 months on Saturday night at PHC Stadium.

Village, who beat Vasco twice in the league last season but still had to settle for second place in the standings, looked set to make it three league wins in a row against the Island's top team.

But they were put under tremendous pressure after that shock opener as Vasco controlled play despite being without injured full backs Derek Stapley and captain Earl Richardson. Striker Corey Hill was also benched, although he made an appearance in the second half.

Vasco, who also trailed 1-0 at the half to St. David's in their last home league match, finally got on the scoresheet on the hour when a high ball into the box landed at the feet of Irving Burgess who was obstructed in the process.

An indirect free kick was awarded and Village lined the goal-line with their players as the ball was smashed into the defensive wall before Voorhees Astwood planted home the rebound.

Three minutes after that the league champions went in front when Sammy Swan, looking like the player of old, scored with a spectacular shot to a cross that smashed against the underside of the bar before dropping over the line.

Vasco were unstoppable after that as they brought on Paul Towlson for Frankie Simmons to strengthen their midfield. Two minutes after his introduction, the match was put out of Village's reach when Dwight Basden scored with a low shot from inside the box after Village had lost possession outside the area.

Village almost reduced the deficit in the closing minutes as Jamel Smith's low cross from the right caught out everybody in the penalty area, including goalkeeper Timmy Figureido, before hitting the far post.

Vasco will enjoy bragging rights at least until this weekend when they meet the Red Devils again in the first Martonmere Cup semi-final on Saturday at Somerset.