Oxford United’s search for a win goes on but the U’s held league leaders Portsmouth to a draw at Grenoble Road.
Tyler Goodrham gave Des Buckingham’s side the lead on the brink of half time but Pompey came from behind to take the lead. However, James Henry nodded home a 90th-minute leveller.
Here are three talking points from the game.
Change of Formation
Having lost their last two, and four from five in all competitions, some fans were calling for a change of shape and that’s what they got.
Buckingham ditched the back three formation and went to a back four with Greg Leigh and Fin Stevens as the full-backs and Elliott Moore and Ciaron Brown in the middle.
Marcus McGuane and Cameron Brannagan were the midfield duo, which allowed Ruben Rodrigues the space in behind Mark Harris to try and create more opportunities.
Tyler Burey was handed a full debut on the right, with Goodrham on the left.
Despite Portsmouth having more of the ball, Oxford were able to attack and defend with pace – something that had been missing in recent weeks.
Stevens and Cumming Injuries
With several first-team players already sidelined and the transfer window closing tomorrow, losing two more players to injury is a massive blow.
Stevens went off just before the break, with Oisin Smyth coming on at right back, while Simon Eastwood replaced Jamie Cumming at half time.
With Buckingham saying the club need a striker and a winger (while some fans still want another central midfielder), there may be calls for the club to bring in another full back and now possibly a goalkeeper with Ed McGinty leaving on loan.
Subs and Depth
Despite going into the break with the lead, Portsmouth were the better team and the changes would always make an impact.
Smyth had arguably one of his poorest performances when he came on, while Eastwood could have probably done better with both goals.
The Oxford bench was a mix of youngsters and experienced players without many minutes, while Portsmouth had the likes of debutant Callum Lang and Tom Lowery to bring on.
Despite that, it was a professional display from Oxford who fully deserved the point.
