Oxford City made it four Premier Division wins in a row against their ten-man opponents.

The result saw Mike Ford’s men move to within two points of leaders AFC Totton who suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat by Hitchin.

City dominated the opening exchanges and almost went ahead when Jon Darby cleared Adam Learoyd’s header from Andy Ballard’s throw-in away from the danger area.

On 13 minutes, Bedford went a man down when their skipper Gavin Hoyte was sent off for stamping.

And the hosts paid the price, with City taking the lead from the resultant free-kick. James Clarke’s ball in found Wayne Blossom who headed in at the top far corner past Ian Brown.

Minutes later, Brown denied Steve Basham before Bedford Drew Roberts equalised when his shot flew past Jason Mooney.

City midfielder Darren Pond, shot wide, before former City striker James Faulkner went close to putting Bedford ahead.

Ballard fired over before City got the winner.

A neat move by City was finished off by substitute Felipe Barcelos who curled home an unstoppable shot beyond the reach of Brown.

City then eased home without too much difficulty.

Oxford City: Mooney, Clarke, Learoyd, (Fleet 37) Ballard, Pond, Blossom, Lyon, (McDonagh 57) Benjamin, Basham (Bar-celos 57) Steele, Ashton Subs not used Clark, Cradup.

Attendance: 259.