OXFORD City failed to capitalise on the previous week’s FA Cup victory, as they fell to a 2-0 defeat at Eastbourne Borough, writes RYAN BRATLEY.

City created the majority of the Vanarama National League South contest’s chances, but saw their more clinical opponents produce two good finishes to take the points.

The visitors started brightly and, within five minutes, a Rob Sinclair effort crashed against the crossbar.

A smart run to the near post then led to Sinclair connecting with a Zac McEachran free-kick, but he shot just wide.

City were then dealt a blow as Eastbourne’s first foray forward resulted in a fortuitous goal after 16 minutes.

Former Oxford United striker Yemi Odubade made the most of a poor clearance to shoot for goal, his effort taking a deflection as it sneaked past Jack Stevens at his near post.

The visitors persevered with their patient build-up play and this approach eventually set up chances.

Matt Paterson found himself through on goal twice in the final ten minutes of the half. But an excellent last-ditch tackle from Ian Simpemba and an equally good save from Bailey Vose denied the striker his eighth goal of the campaign.

The hosts doubled their lead five minutes into the second period as Sergio Torres found the top corner from just inside the area.

City’s clearest second-half chance came when Christian Oxlade-Chamberlain’s cross found substitute Ezra Forde unmarked, but his header from 12 yards was straight at the keeper.

Oxford City: Stevens, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Navarro, Fofana (Forde 58), Poku, Oastler, McEachran, Fleet, Paterson, Sinclair, Pearce (Jones 78). Sub not used: Tutton. Attendance: 642.