Oxford City 2, Bognor Regis Tn 2

In an incident-packed Ryman Division 1 game, City twice took the lead with magnificent goals, only for Bognor to come back strongly in the last half hour to snatch a draw and maintain their promotion push.

After an even opening, City took the lead in the 27th minute with a brilliantly-taken goal from debutant Simon Vickers. There seemed no danger when he received the ball 25 yards out, but he turned to send an inch-perfect chip over keeper Stoner.

Opposite number Stuart Nelson did well to block a shot from Birmingham, and City were out of luck in the 38th minute when a fine run from deep in his own half by Shaun Wimble saw Stoner make an outstanding save by turning the shot on to a post.

Three minutes later, a cracking drive by Funnell hit City's post and the ball fell kindly to Russell, who tapped home from close range.

City were back in front when straight from the restart. Vickers released substitute Steve Arkins, who, with his first touch, unleashed a shot from 25 yards which flew high past an astounded Stoner.

The Rocks, beaten only three times in the league this season, fought back strongly and after they had a goal ruled out for offside, they were back on terms in the 52nd minute. Paul Woodhouse, trying to cut out a low cross, could only divert the ball past a helpless Nelson.

It was Bognor who were now calling the shots and although Chris Fontaine was tripped on the edge of the area and Stoner saved well from Arkins's free kick, the best chance fell to Howell, who sent a clear header over the top.

Craig Farley got in a vital header with Funnell poised for the winner with five minutes left and the whistle sounded with Stoner just beating John Mitchell to a through ball from Wimble.

Oxford C: Nelson, Farley, Dark, Smith, Thorp, Woodhouse, Holder (Ferreira 45), Fontaine, Vickers (Mitchell 71), Wise (Arkins 45), Wimble.

Referee: K Batchelor. Attendance: 161.