Oxford City's unbeaten run in Division 1 South & West of the British Gas Business Southern League came to a grinding halt against impressive Taunton at Court Place Farm on Saturday.

There were early signs that City would have their work cut out as Carl Wilkins made two saves from Ryan Harvard and Sonjo Da Marto to keep the scoresheet blank.

At the other end, Ray Spence saw his close-range effort saved by keeper Jan Jones.

In the 37th minute, the visitors went ahead after being awarded a penalty when Lewis Craker handled. Steve Cook made no mistake from the spot.

A minute before the interval, City equalised as Harry Burnley's hooked shot deceived the keeper.

With five minutes gone in the second period, Taunton restored their lead when Ryan Harvard turned to score through a crowd of players.

City were finding it difficult to get back into the game and their opponents increased their lead when Cook lobbed over Wilkins with 63 minutes gone.

Substitute Anthony Alleyane had a chance to reduce the deficit but shot over.

Taunton's fourth came when Cook broke away to round the oncoming keeper for his hat-trick.

Oxford C: Wilkins, Durrant (Keen 75), Marriott, Avery, Craker, Takriti, R Williams, G Williams, Stewart (Alleyne 63), Spence, Burnley (Jones 70). Sub not used: Glynn.

Attendance: 196.