New Oxford City Stars netminders Kevin McGurk and James Skaife are ready to battle it out for the No 1 spot.

McGurk has joined Stars from Swindon, while Skaife has been recruited from Bracknell - and both arrive with great track records.

The pair came under heavy fire during training as they vie to line up against Streatham Redskins in the English National League South Division opener at Oxford Ice Rink on Sunday.

And they both came through the latest session with flying colours - being equal with shots, saves and conditioning fitness.

It leaves Stars' coaching staff with a real dilemma as they decide who to give the nod to.

McGurk said: "It's all coming together now with five weeks of training since joining the squad.

"I'm gelling well with the players and my training is improving, so it is looking good for the start of the season.

"We will have to see on Sunday who gets picked for the team as we are trying to take each other's place for the No 1 spot.

And Skaife commented: "It's going well, training was a bit slow to start, but I'm getting into it now and can not wait for the start of the season.

"Its good competition, it's healthy competition between us, but I would like to be first netminder for Oxford. But it will be decided on merit and the conditioning programme to take first spot.

"I think with the new rules they are trying to open up the game, it will make it harder for the minders.

"With more shots on goal it will make it exciting for the fans - that is why we are doing the drills we are to cover the new rules coming in."