Report - Wealdstone 1-1 Oxford City

A second draw of the week for CIty

Oxford City registered their second draw inside 48 hours as they shared the spoils with Wealdstone on Thursday night at Grosvenor Vale.

Matt Paterson’s 9th minute strike was cancelled out by David Pratt’s 47th minute strike for the hosts as the match ended 1-1.

Following a much changed eleven on Tuesday night, Mark Jones reverted most of those changes to field a very similar side to that which started on Saturday at home to Bognor Regis. The only difference to that side was the absence of Sam Nombe, recalled by MK Dons, as he was replaced by Zac McEachran.

City started much the brighter side and found themselves in a 9th minute lead. A long ball forward was missed by the Stones defence and found Paterson. The striker’s initial effort was well saved by debutant ‘keeper Ravan Constable, however fell kindly to City’s top scorer on the rebound to tap into the empty net.

The Hoops continued to dominate the first period and had multiple chances to double their lead. Zac McEachran smashed over the bar on his left foot in the 10th minute before Joe Oastler also cleared the woodwork in the 19th minute. Paterson had a chance to grab his second on 40 minutes as his flick-on was superbly tipped over the bar by Constable.

City’s first half lead was wiped out just two minutes into the second half. A cross in from Evans Kouassi found Pratt unmarked on the penalty spot, the Stones striker making no mistake with his first-time effort into the corner of the net.

The Hoops were given a perfect chance to take all three points back up the M40 in the 89th minute. Taofiq Olomowewe pushed Kavan Cotter over just inside the box, referee Matty Buonassisi pointing to the spot. With Paterson having been substituted earlier, Rob Sinclair stepped up to take the kick, however he got under his effort and smashed well over the crossbar.

City wrap up their league season tomorrow afternoon as they travel to Poole Town, 3pm kick-off at the Tatnam Ground.

Oxford City: King, Jones, Stevens, Poku © (Fofana 74), Musonda, Oastler, McEachran (Cotter 80), Fleet, Paterson (Forde 74), Sinclair, Grant.
Unused: Henderson, Godwin-Malife

Attendance: 727