Oxford Hawks resumed their English League Division 2 campaign with a valuable 1-0 home win against fellow strugglers Formby to ease their relegation fears.

Hawks began the game well, although Formby enjoyed the majority of the possession and, arguably, carved out the best of the early chances.

After the break, Hawks gradually began to dominate as solid defence, coupled with quick movement from Nick Styles in midfield and skilful play from Simon Dawson up front, produced a series of chances.

Midway through the half, Hawks grabbed the winner when another strong run from Dawson was finished emphatically by Ali McShane at the top of the D.

Hawks tightened up their game in the remaining quarter to restrict Formby to few chances, although they had to endure a tough last few minutes when the visitors were awarded a short corner on the final whistle.

Twice they defended the corner resolutely, only to concede further corners before, on the third attempt, they finally cleared the danger.