Oxford United gained a crucial three points to keep their play-off dreams alive on Saturday afternoon against a play-off rival in the shape of Rotherham. Oxford once again produced a display of attractive, free-flowing football that is becoming customary under manager Chris Wilder, who was up against the club he represented 132 times in his playing days.
Oxford's first goal came after eighteen minutes and was a classic example of the impressive football I was alluding to earlier. A series of one-twos eventually found its way to recalled Jack Midson on the touchline, who shrugged off his defender before squaring a perfectly weighted ball for Simon Heslop to smash home. Unfortunately Oxford could not record a successive clean sheet, after our goalless draw at Gillingham last week. Before half time, Rotherham had equalised after a similarly attractive move was delicately clipped over Ryan Clarke by Nicky Law.
After the break, Oxford came out intent on securing the three points they so desperately needed. A fantastic save by wily goalkeeper, Andy Warrington (a man who resembles Fabrizio Ravanelli) denied James Constable after a dangerous cross by loanee Simon Hackney, who impressed on his home debut. Minutes later, though, Oxford were ahead. Steven MacLean was played through on goal with only the grey-haired Warrington to beat, before being pulled back by Callum Kennedy. Kennedy was given his marching orders, while MacLean scrambled home the resulting penalty.
Constable ought to have put the game to bed as he was set clear, but managed to scuff his shot against the post. A nervy last ten minutes followed where Oxford had to withstand some late pressure from the Yorkshire side, but they held on to record their first win in four matches.
A huge result that puts Oxford back in with a play-off shout, and which makes Tuesday night's match away at Stevenage even more vital.
Man of the match: Jake Wright
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