Oxford United and Ipswich Town played out their second goalless draw against each other this season as neither side made the breakthrough at Portman Road.
In a game that lacked quality, both sides managed just three shots on target between them. The U’s stay eighth and are now three points off the playoffs.
Here’s how #oufc line-up this afternoon: pic.twitter.com/nAFKHUntxW
— Oxford Mail OUFC (@OxfordMailOUFC) February 20, 2021
Karl Robinson made two changes from the side that won against Wigan last time out in the league with Elliot Lee and Matty Taylor coming into this starting line-up.
Jack Stevens began in goal behind a back four of Josh Ruffels, Rob Atkinson, Elliott Moore and Anthony Forde.
Alex Rodriguez Gorrin sat behind Cameron Brannagan and Mark Sykes, who had moved inside from the previous game. Brandon Barker and Lee were the wide men while Taylor led the line.
The first opportunity for both sides was also the games best chance. Luke Chambers played a deep call towards James Norwood, his header looped over Stevens but Atkinson cleared the ball off the line.
Sykes, who was starting his third successive game for the first time since late October, and Lee were linking up well down the right-hand side and won an early corner. It eventually came into Taylor but his header deflected over.
Gorrin picked up his eighth booking of the season in the first half before Troy Parrott was presented with the best chance of the game. The Tottenham loanee dragged his half volley wide after a swift counter-attack from the Tractor Boys.
Barker played a low ball across which Taylor came close to reaching but the half fizzled out.
The hosts were awarded a corner within the opening minute of the second half but they failed to connect as the ball flashed through the U’s box.
The hosts started the second half as the better side. Norwood struck the post from 12 yards before Teddy Bishop found Parrott, but he put his effort wide.
Robinson made a double switch with Mide Shodipo and James Henry replacing Gorrin and Lee, and it presented a decent chance. Moments later, Sykes fired in a cross towards Taylor but the forward was unable to keep his header down.
Winnall replaced Taylor late on and had one opportunity, but it was easily saved by Thomas Holy.
The U’s are three points off the playoffs following their draw ahead if tricky fixtures against Portsmouth and MK Dons next week.
