OXFORD City must tighten up defensively when they travel to Concord Rangers tomorrow, according to caretaker manager Mark Jones.

A poor start proved costly last weekend as Jones’s side were beaten 3-2 at Truro City in Vanarama National League South, ending the new manager’s perfect record in charge.

Jones said: “Obviously we’re disappointed to lose that run and disappointed with the performance.

“We’re looking to get a reaction this weekend.”

With Robbie Cundy returning to parent club Oxford United, City were disrupted at the back.

Godfrey Poku was drafted in at centre back, while recent arrival Jean Niate was an unused substitute after struggling with an ankle injury.

“Godfrey came in and did well, considering it’s not his position,” Jones said.

“The attitude he’s shown all season has been terrific.

“He’s played right back and centre back for us, when really he’s supposed to be a midfield player.

“He’s always been happy to fill in wherever he’s needed and he’s done well wherever he’s played.

“But obviously centre back is an important position and we want two specialists there, which is what we’ll get from Jean Niate and Lee Henderson.”

With Niate’s recovery, Jones has a full squad to choose from tomorrow and expects the new-look partnership with Henderson to be a success.

He added: “He came in against Eastbourne and I think he and Hendo formed a good partnership – we kept a clean sheet in that game.

“If you’re keeping clean sheets you’re always giving yourself a chance.

“Conceding three away from home, like we did last week, leaves you with an uphill battle.”

TOMORROW’S SQUAD

Oxford City (v Concord Rgrs, away): from Belford, Grant, Poku, Ashby, Henderson, Davies, Fleet, Ngathe, Winters, MacAuley, Fondop, Louis, Ngamvoulou, Peake-Pijnen, Niate.