Match Preview

Oxford City v Hungerford Town
When:1st January 2019
Where: Marsh Lane, Oxford, OX3 0NQ
K.O 3PM
These two sides met on Boxing day but face off again on New years day. The match just last Wednesday had it all including red cards, a wonder goal and an end to end entertaining match. It ended Oxfords winning streak but they are still unbeaten in 7 matches and with Hungerford’s poor away record expect that to become 8. However were turning a new chapter into 2019 so don’t rule anything out.

Form guide- Oxford are unbeaten in 7 league games in a row beating strugglers Wealdstone at the weekend to continue that streak. Their last loss was over a month ago away at Dartford. Hungerford lost at home to Truro at the weekend which means they couldn’t capitalise on Gloucester losing to move out the bottom three. The Crusaders have had some positive performances away from home but haven’t picked up a win or a point away since August bank holiday Monday.
Team news- After a quick succession of games and another coming up this Saturday for both sides it wouldn’t be a surprise if they both rotate their starting elevens. Joe Oalster served his suspension against Wealdstone but Zac McEachran missed that game through injury. Udoka Godwin-Malife and Ben Jefford played with injuries against the Stones so might not be risked. The visitors have Marvel Ekpiteta out after doing his hamstring against Truro. Marcus Johnson-Schuster should be in the squad but if not Josh Martin could again deputise with James Rusby coming in for Ekpiteta.

Star man- Kabongo Tshimanga has scored 10 league goals so far this campaign and will be looking to add to his tally after being a lone figure up front last week against Hungerford. The Crusaders have found a gem in Birmingham loan signing Tom Anderson. Despite still searching for his first goal since signing on he’s a direct runner with pace to burn.

Head to head- In the reverse fixture it ended a 1-1 draw at Bulpit Lane. Last season City won both meetings by 2-0 and 2-1 score lines. In 2016-17 the crusaders emphatically beat City 6-0 after winning 2-0 at home earlier on in the season.