We visit the Kassam Stadium on Saturday where, in the early betting, we'll be the 2/1 outsiders. This is because, after a slow start to the season, Oxford are now unbeaten in 9 in all competitions (4 wins, 5 draws). Its worth noting that of those 4 wins, only 2 have been in the league. That being said, they've comfortably pulled away from the relegation zone and find themselves 14th, 6 points shy of a play off place. At the Kassam Stadium, Oxford have been inconsistent this season, Banking 12 points from their first 10 home games. That being said, they are unbeaten in 3 at home in the league (1 win, 2 draws), and despite their inconsistency, they've only failed to score in 1 home game (1-0 defeat to Wycombe). Of course away from home, we're the leagues 3rd best side with 17 points from 10 games after back to back away league victories. This will only be our second visit to Oxford this century, following on from a bizarre game in 2019 where we were outplayed for the majority, and yet somehow came from 2 down to grab a point. Jacob Brown in particular was in good form that evening. We haven't won in any of our last 5 visits to Oxford, spanning 31 years. A 1-0 victory at the Manor Ground in 1991 being our latest win there, albeit we've spent the majority of the time since then in a different division to Oxford. As the leagues current form team (12 points from the last 5 games and 4 wins in a row), you'd fancy us to look good for at least a point here. We've quietly snuck under the radar again, and without being spectacular, seem to have found that winning formula. I'm going for a tight game with both teams scoring, but ultimately the reds coming out on top. 1-2 with Cole and Phillips scoring in the first half.
Think it’s a potential banana skin this one. Fully expect Oxford to be comfortably top half, close to the play offs, by the end of the season. I’d be happy enough with a point if I’m honest.
I think we'll make it 5 in a row I read in one of the blogs that they're a possession based team and we seem to play well against those types. If we can get the press working well then I think we'll eke out a one nil win. Cole is overdue a goal or big Paulo Kitchini will step up with a 35 yard left foot screamer (ala the type Mr C used to score)
I'm dreaming of a 35 yard screamer, just like the ones you used to score. The net will ripple, the score will triple. We'll hear the travelling fans a roar.
I’m confident for the first time in a while 0-2 Barnsley. Of course we’ll get done now I’ve said that.
Think how they play will suit us. But looks like both Kitchen and Cundy will have to play which makes me nervous. 2-2 draw with Cole getting back amongst the goals.
2-1 to us. Saka and Kane with the goals and Mbappe sent off for two yellows for taking his shirt off for two goals subsequently disallowed by var............... What?
