SALISBURY City remain in sixth place in the Blue Square Premier table despite their 2-1 defeat away at Oxford United.

A controversial 78th minute penalty, converted by Rob Duffy, ended Whites' hopes of leaving the Kassam Stadium with at least a share of the spoils.

Their evening was soured further when Danny Clay was red-carded in stoppage time for a two-footed tackle.

Trailing at the break to Yemi Odubade's 19th minute goal, Salisbury looked far more lively in the second half and enjoyed more of the play.

They deservedly equalised on 54 minutes when skipper Aaron Cook found the net after the hosts failed to deal with Andy Sandell's long throw.

Cook was immediately booked after celebrating in front of the home fans.

City now looked the more likely to score again, however the penalty decision changed the game.

Duffy appeared to handle the ball before going to ground as goalkeeper Ryan Clarke came off his line.

The Oxford player made no mistake with the spot kick to inflict Salisbury's first defeat in five matches.

Manager Nick Holmes said City had possibly shown Oxford too much respect in the first half and thought the penalty decision had indeed changed the outcome of the contest.

With both Andy Sandell and Jon Bass limping off the pitch, and Clay now suspended, Whites may need to make changes for the visit of Kidderminster Harriers on Saturday.

Full reaction to follow...