On a bitterly cold March evening Oxford hosted an in-form Barnet. Edgar Davids was making his first appearance at The Kassam, and the champions league winner showed his class on the night. For Oxford, Adam Chapman's loan spell at Mansfield has opened the door to new signing Scott Davies from Crawley, the centre midfielder had a good game tonight.
The Yellows were keen to put last Tuesday's home game behind them as they suffered a 4-0 defeat at the hands of Rotherham.
And they started brightly, Damian Batt barely put a foot wrong in the opening exchanges and was instrumental; even firing the occasional shot at goal.
Banet had a small flurry of chances, a driven ball across the box was missed by everyone, when any contact would have seen McCormick having to pick the ball out of the net.
Chances kept coming Oxford's way as James Constable lacked the composure to seal the deal and put Oxford in front. Sean Rigg also managed a half chance. But it was the story of Oxford's home form at the break; good play, but very little composure when it mattered.
Edgar Davids was playing for Barnet today. The Dutchman controlled the flow of the game from start to finish and is surely too good for a League Two club, even on this, his 40th birthday. It was a joy to see such a majestic footballer at The Kassam, playing football the way it should be, truly exquisite.
Barnet must have faced a rollocking from the Dutchman at half time because The Bees came out for the second half fired up, with McCormick having to be at his best to deny some point-blanc chances.
Potter also saw a chance go begging as he skyed over the bar in a one-on-one situation.
The nets fell after a ferocious Vilhete strike. And some Chuckle Brother esq figures took to the pitch to repair the damage. This happened once more before the final whistle, providing the valuable injury time Oxford capitalised on.
And as the game seemed to fade in the final stages, into another predictable Oxford performance, Michael Raynes nodded in the winner five minutes into added on time. A delightful cross from Man of the Match Scott Davies saw Tom Craddock head back across goal for Raynes to head into the open net.
A dream ending for Oxford and Raynes. The centre back's two goals have now come in the last minutes of games, last against Accrington Stanley in the FA cup. But this one mattered more as it leaves The U's five points off the play-offs.
I cannot attend the next match as I'll be at Brunel University on an open day. It's against Chesterfield, who sit five points behind Oxford. I consider myself an optimistic person, but fail to see us getting anything from that tie.
Attendance: 5,027
Man of the Match: Scott Davies - Had to deal with the threat of Edgar Davids throughout. Delivered ball for goal.
Match Rating: *** - The main entertainment was watching the groundsmen hoist the net back up!
Referee Rating: ***** - Excellent officials. Let the game flow very well. Understood that slide tackles aren't always fouls! Something hard to come by these days...
Wednesday, 13 March 2013
Sunday, 3 March 2013
Oxford United 2 - 1 Port Vale
Matches between these two at the Kassam have been a treat for the spectators over the last couple of seasons. And this was to be no different. And for the third season in a row, the scoreline was the same.
The atmosphere was terrific as the match got underway, the loyal as ever Port Vale fans had come in their droves and were determined to make themselves heard.
Alfie Potter had won it for the Yellows against first-place Gillingham on Tuesday, and the man of the moment put Oxford ahead with just ten minutes on the clock. A tame back pass from the Vale defender was latched onto by Potter, and he showed the composure to slot it past Neal.
Despite the pressure on Port Vale's goal after Potter had netted, Loft beautifully struck from 30 yards to leave Luke McCormick starstruck as the ball flew past him. The Vale fans were jubilant, and there were ripples of applause from some of the Oxford fans.
The rest of the half saw Oxford pressure but without the clinical edge; the story of their season so far.
Two minutes before the half time whistle, Chris Wilder substituted an out of sorts Adam Chapman. He was distraught to say the least, and remained on the bench through the interval, like a sulking teenager.
After the break it was much of the same. Port Vale didn't look like a team challenging for first place; the players were becoming frustrated, and even more so, the fans.
Oxford capitalised on this with some swift football. A corner fell to Andy Whing on the edge of the box, his pin-point pass to Deane Smalley was met with a first touch and a tidy shot through the keeper's legs. It was 2-1.
In an attempt to get back into the match, Vale threw on Lee Hughes. The threat was neutralised by an outstandingly dogged Andy Whing.
And with five minutes left, Liam Davis drew a penalty. Dean Rigg's failure to convert meant the final parts of the match were tense. But The Yellows held on, and made it two wins in two against League Two's high-flyers.
As I walked away from the ground, I looked around, and everyone seemed to have a smile on their face, and if we're going all soppy, there were elements of pathetic fallacy tonight as the sun shone throughout. I am very pleased.
We seem to be cracking these big teams' strategies. With the introduction of Dean Smalley up front, the big, strong forces the top teams possess have been countered by his pace. Knowing us though, we'll lose to Rotherham next Tuesday.
Attendance: 6,322
Man of the Match: Jake Wright - Another solid performance from a player who is surely League One quality.
Match Rating: ***** - Great atmosphere, great result.
Referee Rating: *** - Failed to see some sneaky Port Vale tackles, and gave yellow cards unnecessarily.
The atmosphere was terrific as the match got underway, the loyal as ever Port Vale fans had come in their droves and were determined to make themselves heard.
Alfie Potter had won it for the Yellows against first-place Gillingham on Tuesday, and the man of the moment put Oxford ahead with just ten minutes on the clock. A tame back pass from the Vale defender was latched onto by Potter, and he showed the composure to slot it past Neal.
Despite the pressure on Port Vale's goal after Potter had netted, Loft beautifully struck from 30 yards to leave Luke McCormick starstruck as the ball flew past him. The Vale fans were jubilant, and there were ripples of applause from some of the Oxford fans.
The rest of the half saw Oxford pressure but without the clinical edge; the story of their season so far.
Two minutes before the half time whistle, Chris Wilder substituted an out of sorts Adam Chapman. He was distraught to say the least, and remained on the bench through the interval, like a sulking teenager.
After the break it was much of the same. Port Vale didn't look like a team challenging for first place; the players were becoming frustrated, and even more so, the fans.
Oxford capitalised on this with some swift football. A corner fell to Andy Whing on the edge of the box, his pin-point pass to Deane Smalley was met with a first touch and a tidy shot through the keeper's legs. It was 2-1.
In an attempt to get back into the match, Vale threw on Lee Hughes. The threat was neutralised by an outstandingly dogged Andy Whing.
And with five minutes left, Liam Davis drew a penalty. Dean Rigg's failure to convert meant the final parts of the match were tense. But The Yellows held on, and made it two wins in two against League Two's high-flyers.
As I walked away from the ground, I looked around, and everyone seemed to have a smile on their face, and if we're going all soppy, there were elements of pathetic fallacy tonight as the sun shone throughout. I am very pleased.
We seem to be cracking these big teams' strategies. With the introduction of Dean Smalley up front, the big, strong forces the top teams possess have been countered by his pace. Knowing us though, we'll lose to Rotherham next Tuesday.
Attendance: 6,322
Man of the Match: Jake Wright - Another solid performance from a player who is surely League One quality.
Match Rating: ***** - Great atmosphere, great result.
Referee Rating: *** - Failed to see some sneaky Port Vale tackles, and gave yellow cards unnecessarily.
Saturday, 23 February 2013
PL: Reading 0 - 3 Wigan Athletic
It was time for another trip to the Madejski, this time to watch The Latics take on Reading. Of course, I went in the away end, optimistic as ever of a Wigan win. Now, you may thinking, has Michael ditched The Yellows? Has he always been a Latic at heart? Fear not trusty blog viewer. My second team is Wigan Athletic.
So I'd just been to an open day at the University of Winchester, it was pretty nice, somewhere quaint where I'd like to retire, but quite expensive. Just like the away ticket I bought at "Student" price - 28 quid! It was pretty shocking.
But hey, it's worth paying that much if you're guaranteed a spot on Match of the Day, if there's a goal at your end that is. So there I was, ready, texting my friends the good news, this was going to be my claim to fame. But suddenly a 'Family Steward' escorts me out of the 'family area' which is just behind the goal. Not only is this bad for me, but it also doesn't look very good when, on Match of the Day, Wigan score in front of the faithful and a flurry of toddlers start clapping.
By the time kick off had arrived I was cold due to my lack of headgear, and was seriously considering wearing the Angora hat my Mum had leant me. In the end, I decided not to, mainly because I didn't want to look like a massive bellend.
The opening exchanges were eye-opening. There was a flurry of chances and every pass was composed, and completed, something of a rarity at the Kassam.
And then, just before half-time, Arouna Kone had poked in the ball. It was one nil. The next few seconds were somewhat a blur. Since I was on my own, I found myself high-fiving random strangers, embracing many a northerner like I'd known them for years. It was awesome.
And two minutes later a sweeping ball across from Jean Bausejour found Arouna Kone, who cheekily chipped it over the onrushing Adam Federici. This time, my arm was around the bloke next to me, and we franticly jumped and fist pumped the air. Such an important goal.
As I went down to get a hot drink and a hot dog the fans were chanting 'Ooohh Arouna Koneee'. It was something I'd never experienced, chanting down beneath the stands.
This may seem a little weird to comment on, but the service at Reading was top notch. I had hot dog in one hand and hot chocolate in the other within a matter of minutes. Well done Reading. Unfortunately this is one of few positives I can take from Reading as a whole, their team was abysmal.
And as an intoxicated Latic spilt his beer over my shoe, I felt it was my cue to return to the stands.
The second half was barely three minutes old and we'd scored a third! Now, this is wear I'd feature on Match of the Day, jubilant behind the goal. Instead I was at the top, with hot chocolate down one sleeve. But we were three nil up, away!
To make matters worse for Reading, Pogbrenyak was sent off, for a stamp. And to make matters worse for Wigan, Jordi Gomez was on.
Wigan could've gone on to score one or two more before the end. And with the Wigan fans ecstatic, and Reading fans leaving in their droves, it was full time.
I was getting a lift home with my friend Sam, he's a Reading fan. The smugness on my face was truly impressive. To be honest, he saw the funny side of it. Fair enough. I mean, Reading's performance was laughable. And as the scoreline was read out on the radio, I smiled, and threw in an annoying comment like "Wahay!" - He wasn't best pleased, and neither was his Dad.
I can't wait to spend another weekend with the Wigan away support. It was a lot of fun, a different, community like experience I suspect you wouldn't feel with many other PL teams. And if we play teams like we did today, we're bound to avoid relegation!
It's back to the Kassam next weekend! I had missed a nil nil at home to York because of this match, and in the words of my Dad "I've never seen a more boring Oxford match in my entire life" - This coming from a man who's supported Oxford for forty years. I'm pleased I went to Reading today.
So I'd just been to an open day at the University of Winchester, it was pretty nice, somewhere quaint where I'd like to retire, but quite expensive. Just like the away ticket I bought at "Student" price - 28 quid! It was pretty shocking.
But hey, it's worth paying that much if you're guaranteed a spot on Match of the Day, if there's a goal at your end that is. So there I was, ready, texting my friends the good news, this was going to be my claim to fame. But suddenly a 'Family Steward' escorts me out of the 'family area' which is just behind the goal. Not only is this bad for me, but it also doesn't look very good when, on Match of the Day, Wigan score in front of the faithful and a flurry of toddlers start clapping.
By the time kick off had arrived I was cold due to my lack of headgear, and was seriously considering wearing the Angora hat my Mum had leant me. In the end, I decided not to, mainly because I didn't want to look like a massive bellend.
The opening exchanges were eye-opening. There was a flurry of chances and every pass was composed, and completed, something of a rarity at the Kassam.
And then, just before half-time, Arouna Kone had poked in the ball. It was one nil. The next few seconds were somewhat a blur. Since I was on my own, I found myself high-fiving random strangers, embracing many a northerner like I'd known them for years. It was awesome.
And two minutes later a sweeping ball across from Jean Bausejour found Arouna Kone, who cheekily chipped it over the onrushing Adam Federici. This time, my arm was around the bloke next to me, and we franticly jumped and fist pumped the air. Such an important goal.
As I went down to get a hot drink and a hot dog the fans were chanting 'Ooohh Arouna Koneee'. It was something I'd never experienced, chanting down beneath the stands.
This may seem a little weird to comment on, but the service at Reading was top notch. I had hot dog in one hand and hot chocolate in the other within a matter of minutes. Well done Reading. Unfortunately this is one of few positives I can take from Reading as a whole, their team was abysmal.
And as an intoxicated Latic spilt his beer over my shoe, I felt it was my cue to return to the stands.
The second half was barely three minutes old and we'd scored a third! Now, this is wear I'd feature on Match of the Day, jubilant behind the goal. Instead I was at the top, with hot chocolate down one sleeve. But we were three nil up, away!
To make matters worse for Reading, Pogbrenyak was sent off, for a stamp. And to make matters worse for Wigan, Jordi Gomez was on.
Wigan could've gone on to score one or two more before the end. And with the Wigan fans ecstatic, and Reading fans leaving in their droves, it was full time.
I was getting a lift home with my friend Sam, he's a Reading fan. The smugness on my face was truly impressive. To be honest, he saw the funny side of it. Fair enough. I mean, Reading's performance was laughable. And as the scoreline was read out on the radio, I smiled, and threw in an annoying comment like "Wahay!" - He wasn't best pleased, and neither was his Dad.
I can't wait to spend another weekend with the Wigan away support. It was a lot of fun, a different, community like experience I suspect you wouldn't feel with many other PL teams. And if we play teams like we did today, we're bound to avoid relegation!
It's back to the Kassam next weekend! I had missed a nil nil at home to York because of this match, and in the words of my Dad "I've never seen a more boring Oxford match in my entire life" - This coming from a man who's supported Oxford for forty years. I'm pleased I went to Reading today.
Wednesday, 30 January 2013
Oxford United 1 - 1 Burton Albion
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.
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.
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.
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