Recap: Oxford City 3-2 Harriers

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Harriers made a dream start at Oxford City as Kieren Donnelly struck after just eight seconds, but a chaotic second half saw the hosts turn the game around to win 3-2.

The opener arrived almost instantly. From kick-off, the ball was played back to Max Metcalfe and his clearance was charged down by Donnelly, who won the race to the loose ball and nodded into the empty net.

Oxford City responded well and threatened from a free-kick on 11 minutes, with Ashley Hemmings’ header blocked behind, before Harriers carried danger of their own. Brayden Johnson released Reece Devine with an excellent ball on 18 minutes and, after the full-back drove to the by-line, his delivery was blocked away for a corner.

The hosts levelled on 22 minutes when Harriers were unable to clear their lines and, after Jack Bearne kept the ball alive at the by-line, Josh Ashby was there to fire home from the cut-back.

Harriers continued to ask questions going forward. George Walker did well to beat his man and cross on 32 minutes, with Donnelly turning and shooting only for his effort to be deflected behind. Four minutes later, there was nearly another gift for the visitors as Metcalfe’s clearance struck Amari Morgan-Smith and bounced a little wide.

Harriers did restore their lead five minutes before the break. A free-kick caused real problems in the Oxford City box, Metcalfe made an initial save to deny Festus Arthur and, when the ball was worked back in by Donnelly, Emeka Obi rose well to head home and make it 2-1 at the interval.

Oxford City were back on level terms five minutes into the second half. Donnelly was just unable to reach Johnson’s through ball at one end and, moments later, a long ball forward sent DJ Sturridge in between the Harriers defence and Rhys Lovett before he finished with a well-taken lob from 25 yards.

Donnelly remained a lively outlet and almost put Harriers back in front on 54 minutes when he drove inside and shot at the near post, with Metcalfe spilling initially before gathering at the second attempt.

Adam Murray changed things on 63 minutes, sending on Seb Thompson, Owen Evans, David Davis and Charlie Cooper in place of Morgan-Smith, Arthur, Ryley Reynolds and Kam Kandola.

The decisive moment came on 70 minutes. Harriers felt there was a clear foul in the build-up as Oxford City won the ball on the edge of the area, but play continued and O’Shea Ellis finished smartly into the top corner to put the hosts ahead for the first time.

Harriers pushed to find a way back and went close ten minutes from time when Davis was threaded through, only for Aaron Harper-Bailey to make a superb block.

After such a bright opening, Harriers were left frustrated not to have more to show for their efforts, with a breathless contest ultimately swinging away from them after the break.

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