Firstly, I'll apologise for the lack of blogposts recently. I haven't been to an Oxford game since Barnet away, with the premier league interludes, as well as my Saturday job its been hard to get a moment free when Oxford are playing.
Oxford secured their third consecutive win over high-flying Cheltenham. A Peter Leven penalty was the difference between the two teams in a game which lacked energy and fluidity. Referee, Fred Graham was part to do with this, due to his picky nature.
The opening exchanges saw few chances before Elliot was deemed to have obstructed Craddock in the penalty area. Peter Leven says he played mind games before the penalty was taken with Cheltenham keeper, Brown, who had his third attempt this season to save a Leven penalty, but once again failed to do so. Leven, clinical as ever from 12 yards slotted it to the right of keeper to make it three out of three.
Today was to be Lee Cox's last match for The Yellows as he returns to Swindon, but he failed to leave with class as many passes went astray. The same can be said for Tom Craddock, his lack of desire on the pitch is second to none, a dreadful performance by the precise finisher. However, it was good to see Michael Duberry back in the starting line-up for the first time this season, he may not be back to full fitness, but his leadership qualities and experience is vital.
Talking of leadership, Oxford's captain today performed impeccably throughout the game. Jake Wright cleared everything that came his way, his performance was truly outstanding and I'm sure an Oxford win would have not been on the cards had he not been on form.
A fascinating battle evolved throughout the match between Jermain McGlashan and Damian Batt. The young winger for The Robins was a handful all afternoon and was the only real advanced playmaker Cheltenham seemed to possess. Batt was up to the challenge however and dealt with him effectively.
Cheltenham came close towards the end, with chances falling inches past the post, but this was Oxford's day, the perfect start to 2013.
Attendance: 6,951 (637 from Cheltenham)
Man of the Match: Jake Wright - Everything that came his way was handled superbly
Match Rating: ** - Few chances, yet fascinating.
Referee Rating: ** - Fred Graham, Failed to let the game flow, very keen to blow his whistle.
No comments:
Post a Comment