Oxford City 1 (Ballard 64)

Bedford Town 1 (Sozzo 23)

Andy Ballard scored a second-half equaliser as Oxford City came from behind to grab a point in their Premier Division opener against Bedford on Saturday in the Zamaretto Southern league.

City were looking to start with a win, but had to be satisfied with a share of the spoils.

It was the visitors who started the stronger, with a free kick from Phil Draycott saved by Richard Knight.

City suffered a blow when debutant Craig McIIlwain limped off seven minutes in.

At the other end, Elliott Sandy effort fizzed wide as City’s chances were at a premium.

They went behind when Graham Clark got the better of City’s defence, and although keeper Richard Knight parried it away, substitute Josh Sozzo rammed home the loose ball.

City upped their game after the break and levelled when Andy Ballard lashed home after Bedford failed to clear an Olly Burgess corner.

Substitute Jamie Brooks then saw his shot rebound off the bar, before minutes later shooting over after bursting clear.

But despite their efforts, City couldn’t find a winner.

Oxford C: R Knight, Ballard, Kinch, Savage, Clarke, McIlwain (J Knight 7), Burgess, Malone, Lyon, (Brooks 57) Sandy (Faulkner 87), Janes. Subs not used: Holman, Barcelos.

Attendance: 151.