Oxford United ended the season with an away win at Exeter. Results elsewhere mean the U’s finish the season in fifth spot, thus securing a playoff spot.
Here are three talking points from the game.
Tale of Two Halves
Determined to get the right result, Oxford started the game on the front foot and were by far the better side.
Ruben Rodrigues had an early chance after a clever one-two with Mark Harris before the Welshman calmly slotted home his 20th goal of the season after winning the ball back on the halfway line.
Ciaron Brown was denied by a spectacular save from a corner before Josh Murphy forced the Finish goalkeeper into a stop. Brown was denied again from a Cameron Brannagan free kick but the latter would double the advantage from 12 yards after some clever footwork from Murphy to win a penalty.
However, after the restart Oxford did start to look a little nervy. Exeter started created chances and forced the U’s into playing deeper. Once the Grecians did reduce the deficit and Elliott Moore almost score an own goal, it was hearts in mouths moments for the visiting fans. The players were starting to look tired.
However, a double change from Buckingham took some sting out of Exeter’s attack and the U’s were able to ride out the result.
Managed the Game
That double change was key. Josh McEachran replaced Ruben Rodrigues and provided some more defensive stability while Marcus Browne came in for Owen Dale.
There was another double switch later in the half when Greg Leigh came on for Murphy and McGuane for Goodrham, which helped Oxford see the game out.
Results Elsewhere
Oxford headed into this game needing results elsewhere going their way. Lincoln occupied the final playoff spot but had a better goal difference while Barnsley were one point clear of the duo. Blackpool were also just one point behind Oxford, making it a four way tussle for two spots.
Blackpool did take an early lead and when Harris scored, it was those two teams in the playoffs. Former U’s midfielder Herbie Kane put Barnsley ahead which saw the Seasiders drop out.
Oxford’s second goal made the match more comfortable but didn’t make an impact on the table. Those changes would come later on.
There was a key turning point at Sincil Bank midway through the second half with Lincoln missing a penalty, before Portsmouth took advantage and scored against the Imps. The champions would add another goal late on, where Barnsley also conceded against Northampton, meaning Oxford finished in fifth spot above the Tykes, with Lincoln and Blackpool missing out.
