In superb springlike weather, Blossom bloomed for Oxford City at Court Place Farm on Saturday.

City skipper Wayne Blossom marked his first start of the year by scoring the first goal in their easy 3-0 Premier Division victory over Arlesey Town in the Evo-Stik Southern League on Saturday.

Blossom had been unable to force his way into the team, but rewarded boss Mike Ford’s decision to recall him by helping City recover from their midweek loss to Stourbridge.

The opening goal came in the 34th minute when Blossom netted in a congested goalmouth following Darren Pond’s corner. Apart from Don Hutchins and former Oxford United winger Mitchell Cole, little was seen of the Arlesey attack.

City, with Liam Malone conducting affairs in midfield, continued to hold the initiative and it was no surprise when a second goal arrived two minutes before the interval.

Again the Arlesey defence was undone by a Pond corner. Blossom headed for goal to give Steve Basham the opportunity to apply the finishing touch.

In the second half, Arlesey briefly threatened through Ryan Frater and Chris Dillon.

The result was settled in the 63rd minue when Declan Benjamin fed Aaron Woodley, who swivelled and rifled a shot into the far side of goal, giving keeper Nick Bussey no chance.

Arlesey had an opportunity to reduce the arrears when awarded a penalty for Benjamin’s tackle on Lee Allinson.

But City keeper Jason Mooney, who had an otherwise quite afternoon got down well to save Dillon’s spot-kick.

It completed a great day City as results elsewhere boosted their promotion prospects.

Oxford City: Mooney, Clarke, Blossom, Ballard, Pond, Willmott, Benjamin, Malone, Basham (Lyon 64), Woodley (Bell 75), Martin (Learoyd 66). Subs not used: Bar-celos, McEachran.

Attendance: 153