Oxford began the month with progression in the FA Cup. The U’s edged past League Two side Grimsby with goals in each half from Marcus McGuane and Billy Bodin. Des Buckingham’s side will travel to Coventry in the third round in January.
Back to league action and a wait for a first win, and goal, went on as Oxford lost 3-0 at promotion rivals Peterborough. It dropped Buckingham’s side down to sixth in the table.
The search for a league win continued as Oxford stumbled to a 1-1 draw away at Reading. Ciaron Brown gave the U’s the lead but former striker Sam Smith levelled the game before the break.
However, the win would come next time out with a 3-0 victory at home against Burton. A Ruben Rodrigues brace and stunner from Marcus McGuane sealed a comfortable win at Grenoble Road.
After a string if positive displays, U’s goalkeeper James Beadle was linked with a move away from the club. Despite being on a season long loan from Brighton, Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham have shown interest.
Back to the on-field action as Oxford suffered a late loss at Northampton. The hosts took the lead just after the restart but Cameron Brannagan levelled from the spot. However, Cobblers netted a 96th minute winner at Sixfields.
Against Cambridge, it was Oxford’s turn to score a stoppage time winner. The visitors took the lead in the first half but Tyler Goodrham levelled for the U’s, before Ciaron Brown bundled the ball home deep into stoppage time.
On the pitch, Oxford ended the month with a home defeat against promotion rivals Derby. The U’s led 2-0 inside 15 minutes thanks to a brace from Brannagan but the Rams roared back and scored two late goals to win the game 3-2.
The month ended with Brentford loanee Fin Stevens being linked with a move to Blackburn. The 20-year-old has turned out 26 times for the club this season.
