Oxford City 1

(Basham 23)

Redditch Utd 1

(Brown pen 82)

New signing Steve Basham scored on his Evo-Stik Southern League Premier Division debut for Oxford City – but it wasn’t enough to bring them victory against Redditch United at Court Place Farm.

Philip Green put an early chance wide for Redditch, before City got into their stride, looking positive in possession when going forward.

And with 23 minutes gone they took the lead.

Adam Learoyd met James Clarke’s free-kick with his head at the back post, directing it into the goalmouth for Basham to head past keeper Dean Coleman.

City were in the ascendancy for much of the half, but could not add to their lead.

Redditch produced a much-improved performance in the second half to put City on the back foot.

Lei Brown shot wildly off target after being set up by David Blenkinsop, and Cameron Jones crossed for Joseph Harris, who put in a decent header.

City were struggling to make any headway and Redditch’s pressure paid off when they awarded a penalty in the 82nd minute.

Clarke handled the ball as he tumbled in the area, and Brown made no mistake from the spot.

Oxford City: Mooney, Clarke, Ashton, Fleet, Blossom, Learoyd, Benjamin, Ballard, Basham (Barcelos 70), Steele (Deabill 89), Stanley (Martin 74). Subs not used: Green, Pond.

Referee: L Marshsallsay (Boreham Wood). Attendance: 208.