Both teams shared the spoils in a match ridden by horrific conditions. On this blustery January evening, the wind was often louder than the atmosphere as it rippled over the thin sheets of metal covering the stands.
James Constable's return from suspension promised much for The Yellows. Last time out at Fleetwood, it was clear Dean Smalley was not yet an able replacement for Constable. Max Crocombe came into the first team for his debut after some below-par performances from Clarke's replacement Wayne Brown; the 19 year-old was warmly received with his every touch, helping calm the nerves.
The game started with barely a chance for either team, Calvin Zola's presence seemed to pose the biggest threat however, but Jake Wright dealt with him exceptionally. The occasional burst of pace from Sean Rigg was all that home crowd was able to get excited at in a first half dominated by a lack of creation.
Burton looked like a team who should be struggling, but instead they're pushing for promotion. This clash had mid-table written all over it. And my half-time flask of tea was almost as disappointing as the first-half of football. The second half didn't promise much.
The second half started brightly however as The Yellows took the lead through James Constable. It was evident how much it meant to him after the passionate celebration. Chances followed for Oxford but they couldn't convert the headers that fell their way.
Burton capitalised as Maghoma was able to toy with Michael Raynes, before he rolled the ball past young Max Crocombe. The remaining twenty minutes left Tom Craddock with a chance, but his lack of pace saw the ball roll out. The final chance fell to Billy Kee, the future star slashed his volley horribly wide though, and that was game over.
A game to forget for all involved, Oxford will feel aggrieved as they only came away with the point however, with most of the chances falling to The Yellows. But the treturous conditions meant the game was never destined to be a thriller. This Saturday I'm off to Roots Hall, Southend, for a match which looks to have all the makings of a classic!
Attendance: 4,906
Man of the Match: Sean Rigg - Showed great desire.
Match Rating: **
Referee Rating: ** - No big decisions, but got many of the little ones incorrect, conditions didn't help though.
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