Guiseley 2

(Johnson 15, 25)

Oxford City 0

Oxford City were outclassed by Guiseley as they slipped to defeat in Skrill North on Saturday, writes MATTHEW BRUCE.

Alex Johnson scored twice in ten first-half minutes for the hosts, and City rarely threatened to get back into the game as they were second-best in every department.

They had started the game brightly and bossed possession in the opening 15 minutes, though without asking any serious questions of the Guiseley defence.

In contrast, the home side looked dangerous whenever they were on the ball, Danny Forrest beating two men before seeing his shot deflected wide in one early move.

That set the tone for what was to come and Johnson gave the hosts the lead when he ghosted in at the back post to nod home Wayne Brooksby’s cross.

Johnson was a thorn in City’s side all afternoon and doubled the lead ten minutes later, turning and shooting into the bottom corner after a beautiful passing move had pulled the City’s defence apart.

Michael Pook went closest for City, unleashing a powerful right-footed volley which stung the hands of Guiseley keeper Steven Drench.

But that was as good as it got for City and despite their hard work after the break they were unable to really trouble the Guiseley backline.

Instead it was the hosts who looked more likely to add a third, exploiting the gaps as City pushed men forward.

Forrest broke away down the right before crossing for Danny Boshell to volley just over, and moments later Brooksby darted inside and shot over with his weaker left foot.

The best chance fell to substitute Michael Potts ten minutes from time, but Victor Francoz got down well to deny him when one-on-one and save City from any further anguish.

Oxford City: Francoz, Ballard, Stonehouse, Malone, Henderson, Willmott, Jackson, Pook (Benjamin 75), Symons (Robinson 68), Pond, Winters. Subs not used: Palmer, Learoyd, McEachran.

Referee: B Khatib.

Attendance: 409.