Oxford City wasted a golden chance to go top of the British Gas Windows Southern League Division 1 South & West when they could only draw 1-1 away to bottom club Newport on Saturday.

While the Isle of Wight players celebrated at the end after securing their very first home point of the season, City could only look back in dismay on a sub-standard display.

After early goalmouth scrambles at both ends, City took the lead after 23 minutes when awarded a penalty for handball.

James Saulsbury coolly scored from the spot for City, who were expected to add to their tally against their struggling opponents.

But they found it hard work against opponents determined to break their home duck.

Newport's Jamie Dyer saw his effort put over the bar by keeper Steve Smith, and wasted another chance to equalise by miskicking when clear.

Early in the second half, Jermaine McSporran produced some neat footwork to create a chance, but his effort was blocked by the home keeper.

Newport went close when Moussa Mambue headed just past the far post from Ouman Khobzi's cross.

But in the 59th minute, City were caught out when Dyer escaped his marker to slip the ball past Smith for the equaliser.

City were unable to gain the upper hand in the last half-hour and had to settle for a point.

They will be hoping a much-improved display at home to neighbours Abingdon United at Court Place Farm tomorrow.

Oxford City: Smith, Saulsbury, Woodruffe, Meade, Pond, Avery, Jones (Davis 67), Malone, McSporran, Redknap (Stewart 67), Bell. Sub not used: Williams.

Attendance: 164.