Oxford United suffered a third successive defeat with a 2-1 loss at home to Sunderland to put their playoff hopes in doubt.
The Black Cats took the lead after 15 minutes but the U’s levelled ten minutes before the break through the returning Elliott Moore. However, despite a second half of dominance from Oxford, Sunderland netted a late winner to move four points clear with a game in hand.
Here are three talking points from the game.
Poor Early Goal to Concede
The U’s started the game brightly but will be frustrated in the manner in how they conceded the opener.
A free kick was played into the box and, once again, Oxford failed to clear their lines. The ball fell to the midfielder who poked the ball past Jack Stevens.
The issue, again, was that the U’s didn’t deal with the initial ball. It will happen over the course of the season but it has occurred far too often for Karl Robinson’s side.
Also, this was a 19th different defensive combination, highlighting how fragile and inconsistent the team has been at the back. It showed again against the Black Cats.
Set Piece Goal for Oxford
With Billy Bodin in the starting line-up, there is always a chance of Oxford scoring from a set-piece. That is what happened ten minutes before the break.
The midfielder whipped a free-kick in from the left and Moore rose highest to head home an equaliser.
His set plays were a threat throughout the game but they were unable to add to their tally over the remaining game time, despite several second-half chances.
Second Half Dominance Comes to Nothing as Sunderland Score Late
The U’s were in control after the restart and really should have taken the lead. Luke McNally struck an effort wide after a surging run from defence, Ciaron Brown was expertly denied from a header and Bodin struck the bar with a sweetly struck free-kick.
Stevens was also tested in the Oxford goal but the U’s had more possession and more clear chances before the Black Cats pounced with just one minute of normal time remaining.
There was still time for Bodin to see an effort sail just wide and Cameron Brannagan’s late effort was saved, but it wasn’t enough.
