New recruits Stuart Nelson and Stuart Riddle have given Oxford City an unexpected boost as they open a new campaign in Ryman League Division 1 at relegated Carshalton Athletic tomorrow.

The pair are a spin-off of City No 2 Mickey Lewis's coaching and playing expedition to United States this summer when they played alongside him for Des Moines Menace.

City centre back Richard Pierson is taking a breakRiddle, a 22-year-old striker, scored twice for City in their 4-2 defeat by an Oxford United XI on Tuesday, while Nelson, a 19-year-old goalkeeper who was with Millwall last year, pulled off some brilliant saves.

The duo have their eyes on breaking into the pro game, and City manager Paul Lee admitted that he will do well to hold on to them.

"The keeper was quality and Riddle is going on trial at Darlington. He is very mobile and has an eye for goal."

Lee added: "We have lost one or two, but we have added one or two quality players. There is no doubt we will miss Richard Peirson in particular.

"There are some big sides spending a lot of money, but we could be top six."

For tomorrow's opener, defenders Andy Smith (ankle) and Nigel Emsden (bruised foot) are missing, while striker Danny Wise is on holiday.

NS AND OUTS

In: J Mitchell (Thame Utd), P Thompson (Mangotsfield Utd), S Nelson, S Riddle (both Des Moines Menace), R Wilkinson (Carterton Tn), D Broomhead (Worksop), D Champ (Thame Utd).

Out: A Foster (Thame Utd), T Sweeney (pursuing musical career).

Missing: R Peirson (taking a break), M Hayward (long term injury).

Verdict: Promotion challenge unlikely, but a cup run is always a possibility.