AFTER creditable performances against Sky Bet League One opposition, Oxford City boss Ross Jenkins is anticipating another tough test against Stratford Town.
The Hoops fell to a 5-2 defeat at home to Oxford United to get pre-season underway, however followed the loss up with a goalless draw at Wycombe Wanderers.
Attention now turns to the trip to Stratford this afternoon, and Jenkins is aware the Southern League Premier Central side will pose a stern challenge.
READ ALSO: Oxford United Women sign experienced midfielder
Jenkins told the City website: “We’re expecting another tough game.
“They’re going to apply themselves. I know the manager, I know what they’re about and it’s not a game we’re going to take lightly.
“We need to apply ourselves like we did against Oxford United and Wycombe, and we need to go out and work for the team.
“It’s really important we address all of our games as we have done so far.”
Against Wycombe earlier this week, Jenkins named seven first team players and four trialists in his starting line-up for the behind closed doors friendly at the Chairboys’ training ground.
Meanwhile, Wycombe began with a mix of youngsters and senior players.
The hosts brought on a stronger XI at the hour mark, with City making ten changes, but the visitors stood firm.
Banbury United have enjoyed a strong start to pre-season as they prepare to play at the highest level in their history in the 2022/23 season.
After storming to to the Southern League Premier Central title, winning the division by an astonishing 23 points, Andy Whing’s side are readying for life in Vanarama National League North.
A narrow 2-1 defeat at home to Karl Robinson’s United has been sandwiched between a 3-0 win at home to Easington Sports, and 3-1 victory away against Evesham United.
The Puritans face Coalville Town at home today, with North Leigh, Stourbridge and FC United of Manchester the remaining fixtures before the season starts on August 6.
A scheduled pre-season friendly at Redditch United on Monday will not be going ahead.
The Puritans reported online: “We thank Redditch for their understanding and are pleased to note that they have arranged a replacement game.”
Didcot Town continue pre-season today with a trip to Wallingford following a 1-0 defeat at home to Bracknell Town.
Thame United beat Bracknell 2-1 last time out in pre-season, and are set to host Milton Keynes Irish this afternoon.
Kidlington are looking for an away friendly after Oxford City Under 23s pulled out of their weekend fixture.
The club reported it is happy to pay half the fees.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here