ANDY Ballard headed the only goal of the game as Oxford City made it a hat-trick of Southern League Premier Division wins with a 1-0 win at Evesham on Saturday.

The result sees Mike Ford’s men move up to seventh in the table and record their third clean sheet in a row.

The nearest either side came to breaking the deadlock was when City striker, Steve Basham helping out his defence, headed a goalbound effort from Wayne Daniels off the line on 28 minutes.

Seconds later, Felipe Barcelos drove wide following a trademark long throw from Ballard, while at the other end defender Josh Green made an excellent block on Elliott Durrell’s goalbound shot.

City dominated after the break, with keeper Jason Mooney having little to do.

And his side went ahead on the hour mark.

A superb free-kick from Barcelos found Ballard, who headed home through a crowd of players.

Seconds later, Barcelos fired over from a good position as City looked to build on their lead.

Midfielder Darren Pond went on a tremendous run, but was unable to hit the target with his shot.

For Evesham, Lewis Pountney headed Josh Quaynor’s centre past a post.

But City were rarely troubled as they warmed-up in style for today’s visit of Oxfordshire derby rivals Banbury United. Oxford City: Mooney, Clarke, Martin, Ballard, Green, Blossom, Barcelos, (Deabill 75) Pond, Lyon, Basham (Steele 45), Stanley (Ashton 81). Subs not used Benjamin, Learoyd.

Ref: M Wilkes (Dudley) Attendance: 109.