Ashford Tn 0, Oxford City 1: Oxford City eased their relegation worries when Jon Steedman scored a spectacular goal in their Division 1 West game at Ashford yesterday.

City, who slipped perilously close to the drop zone following Friday's 3-2 defeat by Thame, started slowly, and keeper Matt Finlay was forced into an early save from striker Ryan Lake.

Then the home side's Scott Todd outstripped the City defence, only to strike the foot of a post.

At the other end, Steedman hit a free-kick straight at the keeper, but in the 40th minute he became City's hero with a successful effort.

Andy Ballard was fouled 30 yards out. Up stepped Steed- man, who fired a great shot inside the right upright, giving the keeper no chance.

In the second half, City took the game to their opponents.

They came closest to scoring again when Ballard saw his shot hit a defender and rebound for a corner.

The visitors did well to contain an Ashford side looking for a place in the promotion play-offs, with the experienced Martin Brown enjoying an excellent game on his return to the side.

Oxford City: Finlay, Durrant, Steedman, Abbasi, Brown, Brandish, Douglas, Ballard, Beauchamp (Perkins 85), Simms (Takriti 81), Perna (Butler 76). Sub not used: Lee.

Attendance:107. Referee: A Field.