Oxford United have had a hit and miss record against this weekends opponents, Rotherham United.
The U’s beat the Millers 2-1 on the road back in October with Matty Taylor scoring a second-half winner but picked up just one point from two league meetings during the 2017/18 season.
Under Michael Appleton, the U’s dumped then Championship side Rotherham out of the FA Cup but lost both League Two meetings when the sides met in 2012/13.
If Oxford pick up three points this weekend, it will be the first time since the 1983/84 season that the U’s have won both league games against this weekends opposition.
Ahead of Oxford United’s home game this Saturday, Caz from Vital Rotherham has kindly answered a few questions for us.
How long have you supported Rotherham United?
Since the mid-’60s. I first went with my dad.
Where did you finish last season?
We were relegated from the Championship.
What do you think of your Manager?
There’s nothing to dislike about Warney (Paul Warne) as a person and the way he is around the club and fans. However, I do sometimes question his tactics which includes his substitutions. Would I have anyone else in charge though? I don’t think I would.
What are your hopes and expectations for the 2019/20 season?
I never really expect much, which is always good if we do well and I get a nice surprise! But, really, we should finish top six if not the top three – but things don’t always work out how they should, do they?
One(s) to watch?
Cheidozie Ogbene is quick – very quick. Matt Crooks and Michael Ihiekwe always put in a shift. We are suffering at the moment with suspensions and injuries to a number of key players.
Which teams you think will finish in the top six?
The six with the highest points would be my guess! I’d like to think the Millers. Wycombe are doing well at the moment. I’d expect Ipswich to be up there too. I’d be surprised if Sunderland aren’t there or thereabouts and you yourselves should be up there too I’d think. Could be anyone from six or seven clubs for one or the other place, to be honest.
Which teams do you think will finish in the bottom three?
Bolton and Southend I think will be the bottom two. And again it could be from five or six clubs for the third relegation place.
What are your thoughts on Oxford United?
I think you’re a strong side and deserve to be where you are in the league.
What do you think the score will be?
Oh, I always go for a 2-2 draw!
Random fact about your Club?
We were in the first-ever League Cup Final in 1961 which was over two legs against Aston Villa. Rotherham won the first leg 2-0 at Millmoor, but Villa won 3-0 at Villa Park to win the cup.
If you could steal one Oxford United player for your own team, who would it be and why?
Probably someone like Josh Ruffels at the moment. We are desperate for a left-back going into Saturday.
What are your proudest and most embarrassing moments as a Rotherham United Supporter?
I’m proud to be a Miller whatever happens – there are so many bad moments it would be difficult to pick one.
Who would you say is your most underrated player?
Matthew Olosunde – he’s another who can run!
Do you have a Supporters Trust and what role do they play at the Club?
We have a Community Sports Trust who work hard throughout the year.
Which was your favourite match involving Rotherham United?
Once again, too many to mention, though it is always good to beat those Owls ‘next door’.
Which was your least favourite match involving Rotherham United?
Any we lose to the above team!
What’s the best thing about Rotherham? (the place itself)
Clifton Park – a lovely park with a good, local museum.
