ZAC McEachran scored an impressive double as Oxford City overcame Vanarama National League South basement boys Hungerford Town 3-2.

The midfielder’s long-range effort four minutes before the break levelled the scores after the visitors had taken an early lead through Liam Ferdinand.

Elliot Benyon put City ahead in fortuitous circumstances two minutes after the restart, before McEachran bagged his second following good work from Jaanai Gordon.

James Rusby halved the deficit for the visitors with 20 minutes left.

Hungerford went 1-0 up after 16 minutes, thanks to Ferdinand’s assured finish.

The visiting player gained possession on the edge of the box and took his time before picking out the corner of Craig King’s net.

City were unable to find an equaliser quickly, but when they did it was worth the wait.

McEachran had plenty to do when he was fed the ball outside the box, but he left the goalkeeper stranded with an effort that flew into the top corner.

If City’s equaliser was sublime, the goal that gave them the lead was ridiculous.

The hosts pressed their opponents and Gordon hurried the defender into a clearance, but the ball cannoned off Benyon and sailed beyond the helpless Hungerford keeper.

Gordon was again involved when City increased their lead in the 63rd minute.

The former Banbury United man stole the ball from an opponent on the touch line, then cut in and squared to McEachran to slot home.

That appeared to put the contest to bed, but Rusby’s header ensured the home side faced a nervous final quarter.

Nana Owusu replaced Kyran Lofthouse and set up Gordon five minutes from time, but his teammate’s shot was straight at the keeper.

Moments later, King did well to save an effort down low, with the loose ball forced behind for a corner.

Despite the tense finish, City held on for a valuable three points.

Oxford City: King, Ashby, Moore-Azille (Jefford 68), Oastler, Wiltshire, Fleet, Benyon, McEachran, Berkoe, Lofthouse (Owusu 60), Gordon. Subs not used: George, Rowe, Brown.

Attendance: 328.