The U's Matchzone

Preview: League One – Blackpool vs Oxford United

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Oxford United will be looking to make it back to back wins in League One but face a tough test away at Blackpool.

The Seasiders have won their opening two league games, but where The U’s edged past Peterborough United in the first round of the Carabao Cup, Blackpool were eliminated after losing on penalties to League Two side, Macclesfield Town.

Oxford have had a strong start to the season, picking up a point on an opening day at Sunderland and overcoming Posh in both the league and cup. But so too have the hosts, easing past Bristol Rovers and Southend United respectively.

An area the U’s are lacking remains in front of goal. Jamie Mackie has started both league games but is yet to find the net, whilst Malachi Napa, who suffered a horrific leg break, began up top in the cup clash. But the U’s have signed Dan Agyei from Burnley and have been heavily linked with a move for Bristol City forward, Matty Taylor.

Goals have come from the U’s quality in midfield. Tariqe Fosu netted at Sunderland, whilst Cameron Brannagan scored the only goal on both occasions against the Posh.

The Seasiders meanwhile have a more than capable front three. Armand Gnanduillet and Nathan Delfouneso have both scored two from three appearances, and look good in midfield with Jay Spearing.

Defensively, including the cup ties, Blackpool have conceded three goals, whilst the U’s only goal conceded came from the penalty spot at Sunderland.

It’s likely that after Karl Robinson made seven changes for the cup tie, he’ll revert back to his original starting eleven which was unchanged for both league games. The only position that may be questioned is whether John Mousinho will keep his place at the back with Rob Dickie, or if Elliott Moore, who played on Tuesday night, will replace the club captain.

Predicted line-up: Simon Eastwood, Josh Ruffels, Rob Dickie, Elliott Moore, Chris Cadden, Alex Rodriguez Gorrin, Cameron Brannagan, Tariqe Fosu, Ben Woodburn, James Henry, Jamie Mackie.

Prediction: Blackpool 1-1 Oxford United

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