With the second acquisition of Justin Richards to Oxford in his career, the Englishman was hoping to make an immediate impact for The Yellows who went into this game as the heavy underdogs. Lewis Montrose, released by Gillingham also signs for Oxford, but was cup tied today.
Oxford faced a high-flying Sheffield United of League 1, who came into the game on the back of a poor defeat to bottom side Hartlepool United. However, with the appointment of Stoke City centre back Danny Higginbotham, a solid defence was inevitable.
The game started slowly, with few chances for both teams. One thing was clear though, the referee was keen on his whistle. And a free-kick was unfairly awarded to The Blades in the seventeenth which McMahon bent over the wall past a stagnant Ryan Clarke. The goalkeeper could've attempted it, in my opinion it was slow, and savable.
Referee Boyeson and his officials continued to be on the receiving end of some abuse from the Oxford fans as decisions were constantly made halting the flow towards the end of the first half.
After the break Richards found himself with the goalkeeper at his mercy, but struggled to get the ball out his feet, and scooped it over the bar. Agonisingly close, but the Oxford faithful were sensing a goal.
And after another chance went begging from Tom Craddock, David Kitson doubled Sheffield's advantage in the 51st minute with a tap in from a fine McDonald cross. And Oxford were left ruing what could've been as the travelling Blades fans were jubilant.
At long last Chris Wilder decided to make a change to our left side, Tony Capaldi and Luke O'Brian started the game there but failed to provide the energy, creativity and width Oxford needed; they're two very similar players. Therefore the introduction of Sean Rigg was a welcome addition. Immediately, the difference was noticed with the quality of crossing increasing, with Sheffield's left-back often in serious trouble.
After creating barely anything throughout the game however, Sheffield found themselves 3-0 up with a powerful drive into the top corner form Nick Blackman. It was game over.
This has been a match Oxford can look back on with much regret, yet with much admiration. The team showed glimpses of quality and didn't look phased by James Constable's four match ban. The criticism I'd have is of Wilder, his decision to start Capaldi and O'Brian on the same wing was flawed. Throughout the game they looked confused and uninspired.
I love the FA Cup, and to be knocked out is a great shame. But now we look forward to a JPT Semi-final against Southend, and league matches which look encouraging. It's crunch time in League two.
Attendance: 7,079
Man of the Match: Peter Leven - Great vision, great composure, linked up the team well.
Match Rating: ** - Sheffield had a team of time-wasters and the misses were frustrating
Referee Rating: * - A poor match from the ref and his officials. The game didn't flow and a tackle couldn't be made with aggression.
No comments:
Post a Comment