Oxford United welcome Burton Albion on Sunday knowing that a win could secure a spot in the playoffs.
Oxford and Burton have similar records in head to head meetings, with the Brewers winning seven and the U’s winning eight of the 22 meetings. One of those Oxford victories was a classic clash in the 2008/09 season.
Oxford travelled to the Pirelli Stadium with Burton sat top of the table, needing just a draw to secure promotion. But the U’s spoiled the promotion party thanks to a late Adam Chapman free-kick.
Burton were the better side against Chris Wilder’s team. Lee Morris tested Billy Turley early on before the U’s goalkeeper also denied Keith Gilroy.
At the other end, James Constable forced Saul Deeney into a save as the U’s looked for the opener.
After the break, Turley tipped away an effort from Marc Goodfellow before Morris missed an open goal after Darren stride squared the ball.
With just over ten minutes remaining, Oxford made the breakthrough thanks to a brilliant free-kick from Chapman in front of the travelling yellow army.
Oxford were reduced to ten men when Chris Willmott brought down Shaun Harrad when through on goal before the striker was also dismissed late on for a challenge in Turley.
Burton went on to secure the title, finishing two points above Cambridge United. Oxford finished four points off the playoffs, having been deducted five points for fielding an illegible player in Eddie Hitchinson.
However, the U’s would reach the playoffs the following season and make their way back into the Football League with a win over York City at Wembley.
