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.
Wednesday, 30 January 2013
Saturday, 5 January 2013
FA Cup 3rd Round: Oxford United 0 - 3 Sheffield United
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.
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.
Wednesday, 2 January 2013
Oxford United 1 - 0 Cheltenham Town
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.
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.
Monday, 26 November 2012
PL: Wigan Athletic 3-2 Reading
My friends laughed at me when I said I was going all the way up north to watch my second team, Wigan, play Reading. 'A rubbish game' they said, 'El Crappico' they bellowed. After that match, lets just say, they haven't asked me how the game was.
The reason for the journey to Manchester is because my friend, Sam, is for some reason a Reading fan.With myself supporting Wigan we had planned this day if Reading were to get promoted last season; they did, and so it was, we were going to the exotic Wigan on a soggy November afternoon.
Reading fans have been renowned for their bad atmosphere and lack of chanting. I was hoping to prove the doubters wrong on my trip up there and experience the level of decibels heard at the Kassam every other weekend. From this match what I can conclude is that the chant 'You only sing when you're winning' definitely applies to Reading fans. It was disappointing.
So the game got under way, and with our seats positioned relatively low, we were hopeful that an appearance on Match of the Day was imminent.
The difference in styles of play from what I'm used to seeing in League 2 is noticeable to say the least. Each player that gets the ball, TURNS! The movement was the most impressive thing though, maybe not from Reading, but from Wigan certainly.
The first goal was nodded in by Reading's centre back Morrison after half an hour of football. I was sat in the Reading end; Sam went hysterical and I showed my happiness for them, whilst feeling rather ill inside. And at one nil it stayed.
My experience of a Premier League game at this point had been very positive. I'd been surprised at the atmosphere from both sets of fans, the quality of football, the respect each team had for one another, but not the price of a burger.
As the second half got under way it was all Wigan as they attacked towards the Reading end. Federici produced a great save early on, but ten minutes later he could only parry to Jordi Gomez, who fired in from close range. A hugely important goal.
This certainly perked up the Wigan fans and their continued support noticeably boosted the home side. Now, something fundamentally important is man marking. Arouna Kone, the 3mil summer signing for The Latics was on top form, perhaps this was the reason he was always in acres of space, but Reading did look shabby at the back. It was his ball out wide to Jean Bausejour which lead to a cross which Gomez was able to nod in, past Federici. It was 2-1.
I said to Sam before Reading equalized that they needed a miracle to get back into this. And they did, with just ten minutes left Ali Al Habsi, a usually reliable goalkeeper fumbled a looping blocked shot into the back of the net. Reading had a lifeline. And with a couple of penalty appeals the tide of the match may just have been turning.
Look, it may sound like I am making this up, but I predicted there was going to be a last minute winner from someone. And what would you know! A beautifully constructed swift break gave Gomez the chance to net a winner. he didn't disappoint and it was 3-2! An epic match.
And that proved to be the final action of the game, the final whistle came with one or two boo's from Reading fans, with some talking about McDermott's future outside the DW.
And there it was, the end of my first Premier League match. As Sam and I ran desperately back through the raining streets of Wigan for our train there was something that made me feel quite mortal, I'd seen a gme in the league that is so profoundly loved throughout the world, I'd savoured the atmosphere, the football, there was a sense of nostalgia in the air.
And so as the fans of Wigan prepare for their next home game against Manchester City on Wednesday, I prepare for Oxford's next home game against Aldershot. I couldn't be happier.
The reason for the journey to Manchester is because my friend, Sam, is for some reason a Reading fan.With myself supporting Wigan we had planned this day if Reading were to get promoted last season; they did, and so it was, we were going to the exotic Wigan on a soggy November afternoon.
Reading fans have been renowned for their bad atmosphere and lack of chanting. I was hoping to prove the doubters wrong on my trip up there and experience the level of decibels heard at the Kassam every other weekend. From this match what I can conclude is that the chant 'You only sing when you're winning' definitely applies to Reading fans. It was disappointing.
So the game got under way, and with our seats positioned relatively low, we were hopeful that an appearance on Match of the Day was imminent.
The difference in styles of play from what I'm used to seeing in League 2 is noticeable to say the least. Each player that gets the ball, TURNS! The movement was the most impressive thing though, maybe not from Reading, but from Wigan certainly.
The first goal was nodded in by Reading's centre back Morrison after half an hour of football. I was sat in the Reading end; Sam went hysterical and I showed my happiness for them, whilst feeling rather ill inside. And at one nil it stayed.
My experience of a Premier League game at this point had been very positive. I'd been surprised at the atmosphere from both sets of fans, the quality of football, the respect each team had for one another, but not the price of a burger.
As the second half got under way it was all Wigan as they attacked towards the Reading end. Federici produced a great save early on, but ten minutes later he could only parry to Jordi Gomez, who fired in from close range. A hugely important goal.
This certainly perked up the Wigan fans and their continued support noticeably boosted the home side. Now, something fundamentally important is man marking. Arouna Kone, the 3mil summer signing for The Latics was on top form, perhaps this was the reason he was always in acres of space, but Reading did look shabby at the back. It was his ball out wide to Jean Bausejour which lead to a cross which Gomez was able to nod in, past Federici. It was 2-1.
I said to Sam before Reading equalized that they needed a miracle to get back into this. And they did, with just ten minutes left Ali Al Habsi, a usually reliable goalkeeper fumbled a looping blocked shot into the back of the net. Reading had a lifeline. And with a couple of penalty appeals the tide of the match may just have been turning.
Look, it may sound like I am making this up, but I predicted there was going to be a last minute winner from someone. And what would you know! A beautifully constructed swift break gave Gomez the chance to net a winner. he didn't disappoint and it was 3-2! An epic match.
And that proved to be the final action of the game, the final whistle came with one or two boo's from Reading fans, with some talking about McDermott's future outside the DW.
And there it was, the end of my first Premier League match. As Sam and I ran desperately back through the raining streets of Wigan for our train there was something that made me feel quite mortal, I'd seen a gme in the league that is so profoundly loved throughout the world, I'd savoured the atmosphere, the football, there was a sense of nostalgia in the air.
And so as the fans of Wigan prepare for their next home game against Manchester City on Wednesday, I prepare for Oxford's next home game against Aldershot. I couldn't be happier.
Wednesday, 21 November 2012
Away Day - Barnet 2 - 2 Oxford United
On a soaking November evening I made the trip down to Underhill, The Football League's smallest ground, and due to the failure of matching Football League standards; Barnet are to relocate next season. 600 Oxford fans made the journey along with myself to North London for an exciting game of football. After the 2-0 triumph at Underhill earlier this season in the FA Cup, a win would've looked on the cards for Oxford, however, this is a side lacking in cofidence, a side slipping towards the wrong end of the table.
Chris Wilder made one change going into tonight's game; Tony Capaldi replaced Liam Davis. With Tom Craddock and Jake Forster-Caskey still out of action it was going to make the task harder.
The match had barely started flowing before Barnet grabbed the first goal of the game. Hyde leapt highest to loop the ball with his head into the far corner. Oxford are yet to win a game this season by coming from a losing position.
There was an immediate reply though by Sean Rigg. The United striker drilled home Constable's knock down into the bottom corner. And we were back at level-pegging after just six exciting minutes.
Chances were created by both sides leading up to half time, with Oxford coming closest in a match where more goals were definitely on the cards.
Straight after half time, Peter Leven whipped in a cross which Andy Whing nodded in for his first Oxford goal. A very important goal since Oxford have a reputation of failing to convert chances.
As the rain poured, Oxford began to lack a cutting edge. Alfie Potter's ability to take on an opponent seems to have detriorated and Peter Leven failed to change a game like he so often has.
Barnet capitalised. With twenty minutes left Hyde was there again to knock in a fierce ball across the box by Peter Holmes. The Oxford fans were fuming, Barnet fans jubilant.
Chances were becoming more prominent for both teams as the game was drawing to a close. Barnet had a chance to snatch all three points but saw a goal disallowed for offside, and a shot just past the post. An indirect freekick on the six yard line posed the biggest oppotunity for The Yellows. But the best chance was the last attack of the game as Johnny Mullins saw his header hit the post, trickle across the line, and hit the other post. How that didn't go in bewilders me.
So, Oxford shared the spoils in a game they should really be winning. It's hard to see on recent form how Oxford will achieve anything positive this year.
Attendance: 1,600 (600 Oxford)
Man of the Match: Johhny Mullins - Did his job expertly.
Match Rating: **** - Either team could've won it by the end.
Referee Rating: **** - Got most of the decisions correct with one or two exceptions.
Chris Wilder made one change going into tonight's game; Tony Capaldi replaced Liam Davis. With Tom Craddock and Jake Forster-Caskey still out of action it was going to make the task harder.
The match had barely started flowing before Barnet grabbed the first goal of the game. Hyde leapt highest to loop the ball with his head into the far corner. Oxford are yet to win a game this season by coming from a losing position.
There was an immediate reply though by Sean Rigg. The United striker drilled home Constable's knock down into the bottom corner. And we were back at level-pegging after just six exciting minutes.
Chances were created by both sides leading up to half time, with Oxford coming closest in a match where more goals were definitely on the cards.
Straight after half time, Peter Leven whipped in a cross which Andy Whing nodded in for his first Oxford goal. A very important goal since Oxford have a reputation of failing to convert chances.
As the rain poured, Oxford began to lack a cutting edge. Alfie Potter's ability to take on an opponent seems to have detriorated and Peter Leven failed to change a game like he so often has.
Barnet capitalised. With twenty minutes left Hyde was there again to knock in a fierce ball across the box by Peter Holmes. The Oxford fans were fuming, Barnet fans jubilant.
Chances were becoming more prominent for both teams as the game was drawing to a close. Barnet had a chance to snatch all three points but saw a goal disallowed for offside, and a shot just past the post. An indirect freekick on the six yard line posed the biggest oppotunity for The Yellows. But the best chance was the last attack of the game as Johnny Mullins saw his header hit the post, trickle across the line, and hit the other post. How that didn't go in bewilders me.
So, Oxford shared the spoils in a game they should really be winning. It's hard to see on recent form how Oxford will achieve anything positive this year.
Attendance: 1,600 (600 Oxford)
Man of the Match: Johhny Mullins - Did his job expertly.
Match Rating: **** - Either team could've won it by the end.
Referee Rating: **** - Got most of the decisions correct with one or two exceptions.
Monday, 22 October 2012
Oxford United 5 - 0 Accrington Stanley
On Monday night Oxford looked like a team recently woven together, there was no cohesion about them; no togetherness. It was a different story today as Accrington came to the Kassam on the back of two defeats and slipping out of the play-off places. Tom Craddock said after the match that the start Oxford enjoyed can was "like a false start", but with today's result, The Yellows look to be back underway with their push for promotion.
Oxford tend to start games brightly, and today was no different. With just twelve minutes on the clock Tom Craddock striked, hoisting the ball into the back of the net, starting what would prove to be a prolific day for the Oxford striker.
Ian Dunbavin was Stanley's man of the match. He misjudged a back pass however in the twenty third minute, allowing Craddock to pick his spot and slot the ball past his near post.
James Constable looks to be finding his form which has been in abundance recently. A goal would have done him good but today Dunbavin came out on top. From one of his rebounded shots Craddock was on hand to blast into the roof of the net. A first half hat-trick for Craddock, and three goals for United!
The Stanley defence was poor. As for the strikeforce, they had very few chances to force the issue, yet struck the post just coming up to half time.
Unfortunately a more lenient Oxford United approached the second half. The fans, very rarely relaxed, were. And the style of football followed. Although Accrington hit the bar it was simple for Oxford, and they played with confidence.
Craddock became the first person to score four in a game for Oxford in twenty years when he wrong-footed Dunbavin to put the icing on the cake.
The fifth came from Alfie Potter, who by his standards had a quiet night. Some slick football left Potter on the receiving end of a Peter Leven chip. He nestled it between a dumbfound Dunbavin's legs.
The final whistle couldn't come sooner for Stanley whose 96 travelling fans sang their hearts out the entire game. It's hard to believe they sit in the upper half of the table considering this was the worst team seen at the Kassam in a long while.
Oxford on the other hand needed this. Chris Wilder needed this. Tom Craddock needed this. Let's hope this will be the catalyst in a Christmas surge Oxford normally encounter.
Attendance: 5,403
Man of the Match: Tom Craddock - His four goal haul more than doubled his tally for the season. Although he owes much of his success to Constable
Match Rating: *****
Referee Rating: Deadman - Nothing controversial to deal with.
Wednesday, 3 October 2012
Oxford United 3 - 2 AFC Wimbledon
It was the worst run of Chris Wilder's reign at Oxford United. Six defeats from six meant The U's were heading to the wrong end of the table. As the murmurs of 'Wilder Out' loudened this was a must win game for Chris who could have been looking for a new job come Monday morning. However, new Oxford chairman Ian Lenaghan has declared he will only judge wilder when the team is at full strength. That could be a while. AFC Wimbledon however have already gone ahead and sacked long-term boss Terry Brown who gained them four straight promotions; a bit harsh in my opinion.
This was a game from the off that produced many chances. Oxford had't touched the ball before Wayne Brown was brought into action to tip round the post. The resulting corner was far from convincingly dealt with. But it would be Oxford who got the early break; Jake Forster-Caskey looping a free kick over the wall and past goalkeeper Brown of Wimbledon. One nil to Oxford and I could feel a whole lot more comfortable. For ten minutes.
Eleven minutes after getting the first goal Oxford were pegged back through a goal mouth scramble that could only be found in the lower leagues. With Oxford failing to clear on multiple occasions, Harrison was there to nod the ball in.
United keeper Wayne Brown had been called in to replace Ryan Clarke, whose form had recently dipped. Against Rotherham Brown made a couple of faults, resulting in two goals. Arguably, the second Wimbledon goal was savable. From thirty-five yards Fenlon let strike and found the opposite bottom corner.
Inevitable boo's from the home fans followed with the odd 'Wilder Out' chant thrown in just to make sure the message was clear. Wayne Brown received a fair share of jeers as the sides went in for the break.
Simon Heslop, like most other Oxford players has been low on confidence, and on poor form. He was brought on at half-time, replacing Simon Cox. And it was Heslop who delivered an inspired ball into the box which failed to receive the deserved header from Potter, it was saved, but the rebound tapped in by Dean Smalley.
It was Oxford who piled on the pressure, but Wimbledon who had the better of the openings. A shot looped over Oxford keeper Wayne Brown, looking goal-bound, but finding the post. Brown was later subbed for Clarke to a standing ovation from the Oxford fans.
Times were growing hard for The Yellows, but there wasn't the usual, tense atmosphere in the stands, instead it was one of acceptance that we are not a team that can be challenging the top clubs of the league with such a bland line-up.
Luckily, the two Wimbledon centre backs were as bad as any seen at The Kassam in recent times. This allowed Tommy Craddock to drive a ball through the defence for an Alfie Potter tap in.
The action wasn't over there and in the last minute Ryan Clarke produced a save that wouldn't look out of place in the premier league. Wimbledon also hit the bar with seconds left on the clock.
Full time and Wimbledon must be absolutely devastated they have nothing to show for a hearty performance at the Kassam. As for Oxford, they didn't lose! I left the ground feeling very pleased.
Attendance: 5,206
Man of the Match: Sean Rigg - Produced some cracking crosses.
Match Rating: ****
Referee Rating: East - He had a fairly good game except for one or two late on decisions. Let the game flow very well.
This was a game from the off that produced many chances. Oxford had't touched the ball before Wayne Brown was brought into action to tip round the post. The resulting corner was far from convincingly dealt with. But it would be Oxford who got the early break; Jake Forster-Caskey looping a free kick over the wall and past goalkeeper Brown of Wimbledon. One nil to Oxford and I could feel a whole lot more comfortable. For ten minutes.
Eleven minutes after getting the first goal Oxford were pegged back through a goal mouth scramble that could only be found in the lower leagues. With Oxford failing to clear on multiple occasions, Harrison was there to nod the ball in.
United keeper Wayne Brown had been called in to replace Ryan Clarke, whose form had recently dipped. Against Rotherham Brown made a couple of faults, resulting in two goals. Arguably, the second Wimbledon goal was savable. From thirty-five yards Fenlon let strike and found the opposite bottom corner.
Inevitable boo's from the home fans followed with the odd 'Wilder Out' chant thrown in just to make sure the message was clear. Wayne Brown received a fair share of jeers as the sides went in for the break.
Simon Heslop, like most other Oxford players has been low on confidence, and on poor form. He was brought on at half-time, replacing Simon Cox. And it was Heslop who delivered an inspired ball into the box which failed to receive the deserved header from Potter, it was saved, but the rebound tapped in by Dean Smalley.
It was Oxford who piled on the pressure, but Wimbledon who had the better of the openings. A shot looped over Oxford keeper Wayne Brown, looking goal-bound, but finding the post. Brown was later subbed for Clarke to a standing ovation from the Oxford fans.
Times were growing hard for The Yellows, but there wasn't the usual, tense atmosphere in the stands, instead it was one of acceptance that we are not a team that can be challenging the top clubs of the league with such a bland line-up.
Luckily, the two Wimbledon centre backs were as bad as any seen at The Kassam in recent times. This allowed Tommy Craddock to drive a ball through the defence for an Alfie Potter tap in.
The action wasn't over there and in the last minute Ryan Clarke produced a save that wouldn't look out of place in the premier league. Wimbledon also hit the bar with seconds left on the clock.
Full time and Wimbledon must be absolutely devastated they have nothing to show for a hearty performance at the Kassam. As for Oxford, they didn't lose! I left the ground feeling very pleased.
Attendance: 5,206
Man of the Match: Sean Rigg - Produced some cracking crosses.
Match Rating: ****
Referee Rating: East - He had a fairly good game except for one or two late on decisions. Let the game flow very well.
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