OXFORD City Stars pulled off a big double signing last night.

Head coach Simon Anderson put pen-to-paper on a new two-year deal, while Czech star Ondrej Pekarik agreed to remain at the club for a further season.

Both were announced at a fans’ forum, with 6ft 3in ace Pekarik stunning the gathered crowd by signing his contract in front of them.

Anderson had a year still to run on his existing deal, but the new Stars directors were keen to tie him to the club longer term.

And the coach had little hesitation in committing his future to Oxford.

“Once I was approached by the directors it was a very easy decision, especially after they revealed their plans for the future of the club,” he said.

“We are heading only in one direction with these guys in charge, and it’s an exciting time to be a part of this great organisation.

“I have been very busy during the last month contacting players and putting together a Stars roster that everyone will again be proud of – and one in which I feel can challenge at the top end of the league.”

Director James Schall added: “We have been very impressed with Simon’s hard work and success.

“Fourth place was beyond most people’s expectations, but Simon delivered.

“By providing Simon with this two-year deal, we’re securing not only a well-regarded coach, but also a man who on his wedding anniversary was busy talking to players about joining while in a restaurant celebrating with his wife.

“I’m not so sure she was as happy as we were with that situation!

“He brings us such a vibrant, skilful and fast style which excites our fans, and we’re overjoyed he has committed to Oxford for the next few years at least.”

The capture of Pekarik is seen as a huge signing by Anderson.

After scoring 19 goals last season, many expected the Czech star to move elsewhere. But Stars’ head coach had other ideas.

“Getting Ondrej to return was a top priority for me,” Anderson said.

“His signing shows the rest of the league we mean business and I really believe a 100 per cent fit Ondrej Pekarik has the ability to be one of the, if not the best, player in this league.”

The forward was equalled delighted to rejoin, and after witnessing Oxford United’s promotion, is hoping to deliver more sporting success.

“The fans here are great, the club have been great and I want to stay in the beautiful city of Oxford,” he said.

“I loved so many fans singing ‘yellows, yellows’ – I would love to see more of them in the ice rink to see us, they are crazy and so loud – I love the Yellows.”

Other topics discussed at the forum included season-ticket benefits, next year’s kit, switching the home end at Oxpens Road and making the rink more of a home stadium for the Stars.