Bicester just about deserved this win in a game that could have gone either way.
Without skipper Matthew Cresswell and influential midfielder Marcus McGillycuddy, Bicester forced Shortwood keeper Ryan Gannaway to make two fine saves in the first five minutes before going ahead when Paul Darch rifled home a free kick from the edge of the area.
Shortwood stepped up a gear, and it was no surprise when they equalised on 32 minutes through John Lang.
The second half became a little scrappy as both teams pressed for a winner, but it did not come until six minutes from time.
Bicester player-manager Barry Grant powered his way through the Shortwood defence to set up Mickey Marshall. His shot was only parried by Gannaway to Des O'Connor, who crossed for Marshall to head home.
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