Oxford United 0 Chesterfield 1 (Richards 5)

4:58pm Saturday 16th March 2013 in Sport Photograph of the Author By David Pritchard, Chief Sports Reporter covering Oxford United. Follow us on twitter: @oxfordmailoufc. Call me on 01865 425458

OXFORD United suffered a big blow to their play-off hopes as they were unable to make the most of their chances after conceding an early Marc Richards strike.

The in-form home side responded well from the early setback, but not for the first time this season were left ruing a lack of ruthlessness in the final third.

They controlled the game up to half time as Chesterfield hung on desperately at times.

Deane Smalley came closest to finding an equaliser as he went through on goal late in the half, only to see his shot saved.

But they were never able to exert the same pressure after the break and Chesterfield held on to claim all three points.

Liam Davis replaced Luke O'Brien in one of two changes to United's starting line-up.

Smalley came in to partner James Constable up front, so Alfie Potter switched to the right flank as Josh Parker dropped to the bench.

The U's were looking for a sixth win in eight games, but they found themselves behind after the first meaningful attack of the game.

On five minutes a ball into the box from Richard Brindley seemed to catch out the hosts' back four, allowing Richards to sweep a finish past Luke McCormick.

It stunned United, who took time to find a rhythm in their search for an equaliser.

Chesterfield goalkeeper Tommy Lee gave them a first glimmer of hope on 15 minutes by dropping a high cross from Sean Rigg.

Constable was just unable to take advantage, but it helped to get the U's going.

For the majority of the half hour leading up to the break Chesterfield were pinned back and looking to slow the game down as much as possible.

Midway through the half another Rigg cross caused problems. Potter had a header blocked and the ball fell to Smalley, who had three efforts smothered before the Spireites finally cleared their lines.

Smalley looked fired up against his former side and picked up a booking for hauling Nathan Smith off the pitch.

The full back appeared to be wasting time, but he was substituted before play restarted.

Barring a free-kick which Conor Townsend curled onto the roof of McCormick's net, it was one-way traffic in the lead up to the break.

Chesterfield defended well, but a clear-cut chance arrived in first-half stoppage time.

A diagonal ball from Scott Davies was misjudged by Neal Trotman. It fell for Smalley to face Lee one-on-one, but the goalkeeper blocked his powerful shot.

The first chance of the second half also fell to Smalley, who spun in the box and had a shot saved by Lee.

At the other end Jay O'Shea jinked past two challenges and bent a shot just past McCormick's left-hand post.

On the hour Tom Craddock was brought on, giving the U's a front four with Smalley and Potter on the flanks.

There was no disputing their attacking intentions, but all too often United were let down by their own impatience.

Several attacks broke down due to a hurried ball forward, rather than looking to build pressure as they had before the break.

It suited a Chesterfield side keen to soak up pressure and protect their lead.

When United did find a way through Lee, who was not tested enough in the second 45 minutes, held firm.

The goalkeeper did well to hang on to a low Craddock shot which flew through a crowded penalty area.

Harry Worley was thrown on as a makeshift striker in the closing stages, but unlike in United's midweek game against Barnet they could not find a breakthrough in stoppage time.

Oxford Utd: McCormick, Batt, Raynes (Worley 87), Wright, Davis, Potter, Whing, Davies, Rigg (Craddock 59), Constable, Smalley (Parker 77).

Unused subs: Brown, Duberry, Heslop, O'Brien.

Chesterfield: Lee, Brindley (Randall 90), Trotman, Cooper, Smith (Whitaker 27), Darikwa (Talbot 66), Hird, Togwell, Townsend, O'Shea, Richards.

Unused subs: Barrington, Clark, Henshaw, Lester.

Referee: Darren Bond.

Attendance: 6,003 (385 visitors).

Comments (34)

5:04pm Sat 16 Mar 13

Megastar07 says...

F**king useless
F**king useless Megastar07

5:06pm Sat 16 Mar 13

Joe1 says...

Same old story, our front men CAN'T finish. Hopefully in the Summer our Chairman will allowe us to bring in a couple of finishers? We don't play well @ the K--------m. It's that curse again, we need to be cleansed!!!
Same old story, our front men CAN'T finish. Hopefully in the Summer our Chairman will allowe us to bring in a couple of finishers? We don't play well @ the K--------m. It's that curse again, we need to be cleansed!!! Joe1

5:13pm Sat 16 Mar 13

dorsetyellows says...

Shame we fell short of the mark AGAIN !!!!
Shame we fell short of the mark AGAIN !!!! dorsetyellows

5:26pm Sat 16 Mar 13

WindsorYellow says...

We're **** end of !!!
We're **** end of !!! WindsorYellow

5:55pm Sat 16 Mar 13

Bathyellow says...

Beano. Signing for London Welsh, !!!! puts enough over the bar. What a great chance we had to close the gap with Rotherham losing, think we have to be realistic and say that's it now for this season although still possible. Now is the time for IL to get rid of, bring in McDermott
Beano. Signing for London Welsh, !!!! puts enough over the bar. What a great chance we had to close the gap with Rotherham losing, think we have to be realistic and say that's it now for this season although still possible. Now is the time for IL to get rid of, bring in McDermott Bathyellow

6:05pm Sat 16 Mar 13

foxvox says...

Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer
Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer foxvox

6:48pm Sat 16 Mar 13

senior supporter says...

What a strange season this is developing into, relegation form at home,promotion form away. I am at a loss to understand the reasons although missed chances must be a major factor. With 16 players out of contract at the end of the season it will be a chance to have a mass clearout and quite possibly a new manager.Frustrated again this term it is the same old story as the lat two seasons.
What a strange season this is developing into, relegation form at home,promotion form away. I am at a loss to understand the reasons although missed chances must be a major factor. With 16 players out of contract at the end of the season it will be a chance to have a mass clearout and quite possibly a new manager.Frustrated again this term it is the same old story as the lat two seasons. senior supporter

7:05pm Sat 16 Mar 13

Bathyellow says...

Not Westley all kick and rush, or Buckle. Bristol Rovers fans called him Boot it in the air Buckle glad to get rid of him, Westley is much the same although he did well at Stevenage when they kicked us of the park
Not Westley all kick and rush, or Buckle. Bristol Rovers fans called him Boot it in the air Buckle glad to get rid of him, Westley is much the same although he did well at Stevenage when they kicked us of the park Bathyellow

7:50pm Sat 16 Mar 13

Richard Wickson says...

I was hopeful at the start and dismayed by the end. More shots and more corners than our opponents for the umpteenth time this season at home and 3 more points go north. As someone else has said Beano should play Rugby, he looks every inch Fernando Torres without hair, hustle and bustle in spades but no end product. Sorry but despite being a fans favourite he's one for the exit door. Sadly it's the same old story that we promise a lot and deliver little, flatter only to deceive. Maybe next season will be the one, or the one after, or after or after...............
.......
I was hopeful at the start and dismayed by the end. More shots and more corners than our opponents for the umpteenth time this season at home and 3 more points go north. As someone else has said Beano should play Rugby, he looks every inch Fernando Torres without hair, hustle and bustle in spades but no end product. Sorry but despite being a fans favourite he's one for the exit door. Sadly it's the same old story that we promise a lot and deliver little, flatter only to deceive. Maybe next season will be the one, or the one after, or after or after............... ....... Richard Wickson

9:15pm Sat 16 Mar 13

35 year fan says...

this group of players are so weak mentally. stage fright at home. never recover if they go behind.
this group of players are so weak mentally. stage fright at home. never recover if they go behind. 35 year fan

10:47pm Sat 16 Mar 13

stephen burrows says...

If these players can't deliver then they must be thinned out when their contracts expire. Reluctantly I say the same about CW, though I would like to support him. I still think that the chairman will see things very clearly and make the best decision for the club. We are very fortunate that Mr L is in ultimate charge. For the medium to long term, OUFC must push youth policy and players like Tyrone. We must develop here to the utmost, and not just trust recycled league 2 journeymen to do our business. The other clubs can play the free-transfer game just as well, giving us no real competitive advantage. Then must come the stadium - somehow.
If these players can't deliver then they must be thinned out when their contracts expire. Reluctantly I say the same about CW, though I would like to support him. I still think that the chairman will see things very clearly and make the best decision for the club. We are very fortunate that Mr L is in ultimate charge. For the medium to long term, OUFC must push youth policy and players like Tyrone. We must develop here to the utmost, and not just trust recycled league 2 journeymen to do our business. The other clubs can play the free-transfer game just as well, giving us no real competitive advantage. Then must come the stadium - somehow. stephen burrows

12:25am Sun 17 Mar 13

YellowLAD says...

foxvox wrote:
Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer
Wilder has a yearly rolling contract which means he would always need to be paid off a year in advance if we were to terminate his contract.
[quote][p][bold]foxvox[/bold] wrote: Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer[/p][/quote]Wilder has a yearly rolling contract which means he would always need to be paid off a year in advance if we were to terminate his contract. YellowLAD

11:20am Sun 17 Mar 13

CoopersChris says...

I've only been watching The U's regularly for the last 6 years or so, having moved to the area from Nottm, but have had a season ticket in the East Stand for the last 3 years, and probably been to 1/3 of away games (Inc places like Accrington, Morecambe, Plymouth & York)
Clearly, the whole stadium situation is a major problem, and, as long as we remain at the Kassam, is never going to be resolved to our benefit, however, putting that aside, a few observations on this season;
1. I cannot remember a single home game this season, that I would describe as "enjoyable"... even the games we've won have been by the odd goal, often after a poor performance.
2. I accept the pitch isnt great, but we've been hoofing the ball out of defence long before the egg chasers came to town, and many of our opponents seem to have been able to pass the ball, whilst we cant.
3. Listening to CW and some of the players comments after the games, I wonder if I've been to a different game altogether. They seem deluded in the extreme, believing that we've "dominated games" where we've clearly been 2nd best. If these guys cannot see the problems, then what hope do they have of fixing them??
4. In CW and his coaching staff, we appear to have little or no experience of forward play, so its little wonder our attacking play is so limited. Constable is constantly offside (and for godsake, stop standing in front of the oppo's keeper when he's kicking it... all it does is make you offside if we win the ball from the kick!) whilst the movement from the others - Smalley, Craddock, whoever, is very limited. Compare this to the problems posed by opposing strikeforce', and the difference is massive... its just a good job we have Jake Wright and quality keeper(s) or we'd have lost far more games.
5. I sit with a lifelong Oxford fan, but we've both already decided that, unless things change dramatically, we wont be renewing our tickets for next year, and, based on the comments of many around us, we wont be alone.

Not renewing my ticket isnt a question of loyalty - Forest will always be my #1 team, but I've been happy to support my adopted club, home and away, which, the crowds would suggest is more than many so called "Oxford Loyals" - but wont do so to be subjected to the dross that I've seen, week after week this year.

This summer needs to see major changes in Management and players, or I think crowds of 3500-4000 will become the norm for next season.

Keep either Clarke or McCormick, Liam Davies, Wright, Batt, Whing & Potter.... the rest should all go, along with CW and Co

Disappointed and frustrated.
I've only been watching The U's regularly for the last 6 years or so, having moved to the area from Nottm, but have had a season ticket in the East Stand for the last 3 years, and probably been to 1/3 of away games (Inc places like Accrington, Morecambe, Plymouth & York) Clearly, the whole stadium situation is a major problem, and, as long as we remain at the Kassam, is never going to be resolved to our benefit, however, putting that aside, a few observations on this season; 1. I cannot remember a single home game this season, that I would describe as "enjoyable"... even the games we've won have been by the odd goal, often after a poor performance. 2. I accept the pitch isnt great, but we've been hoofing the ball out of defence long before the egg chasers came to town, and many of our opponents seem to have been able to pass the ball, whilst we cant. 3. Listening to CW and some of the players comments after the games, I wonder if I've been to a different game altogether. They seem deluded in the extreme, believing that we've "dominated games" where we've clearly been 2nd best. If these guys cannot see the problems, then what hope do they have of fixing them?? 4. In CW and his coaching staff, we appear to have little or no experience of forward play, so its little wonder our attacking play is so limited. Constable is constantly offside (and for godsake, stop standing in front of the oppo's keeper when he's kicking it... all it does is make you offside if we win the ball from the kick!) whilst the movement from the others - Smalley, Craddock, whoever, is very limited. Compare this to the problems posed by opposing strikeforce', and the difference is massive... its just a good job we have Jake Wright and quality keeper(s) or we'd have lost far more games. 5. I sit with a lifelong Oxford fan, but we've both already decided that, unless things change dramatically, we wont be renewing our tickets for next year, and, based on the comments of many around us, we wont be alone. Not renewing my ticket isnt a question of loyalty - Forest will always be my #1 team, but I've been happy to support my adopted club, home and away, which, the crowds would suggest is more than many so called "Oxford Loyals" - but wont do so to be subjected to the dross that I've seen, week after week this year. This summer needs to see major changes in Management and players, or I think crowds of 3500-4000 will become the norm for next season. Keep either Clarke or McCormick, Liam Davies, Wright, Batt, Whing & Potter.... the rest should all go, along with CW and Co Disappointed and frustrated. CoopersChris

11:56am Sun 17 Mar 13

foxvox says...

YellowLAD wrote:
foxvox wrote:
Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer
Wilder has a yearly rolling contract which means he would always need to be paid off a year in advance if we were to terminate his contract.
So CW either has to be paid off or given a year's notice. I can see IL giving him a year's notice which means he'll get one more chance to get Oxford up. The problem is it gives him one more chance to waste money on players who just aren't up to it in this league.
[quote][p][bold]YellowLAD[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]foxvox[/bold] wrote: Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer[/p][/quote]Wilder has a yearly rolling contract which means he would always need to be paid off a year in advance if we were to terminate his contract.[/p][/quote]So CW either has to be paid off or given a year's notice. I can see IL giving him a year's notice which means he'll get one more chance to get Oxford up. The problem is it gives him one more chance to waste money on players who just aren't up to it in this league. foxvox

1:18pm Sun 17 Mar 13

YellowLAD says...

foxvox wrote:
YellowLAD wrote:
foxvox wrote:
Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer
Wilder has a yearly rolling contract which means he would always need to be paid off a year in advance if we were to terminate his contract.
So CW either has to be paid off or given a year's notice. I can see IL giving him a year's notice which means he'll get one more chance to get Oxford up. The problem is it gives him one more chance to waste money on players who just aren't up to it in this league.
I also have a sick feeling he'll still be at the helm next season! Underwhelmed would be the understatement of a lifetime
[quote][p][bold]foxvox[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]YellowLAD[/bold] wrote: [quote][p][bold]foxvox[/bold] wrote: Westley hasn't got a job ... and Wilder probably won't have soon. Is his contract up in the Summer[/p][/quote]Wilder has a yearly rolling contract which means he would always need to be paid off a year in advance if we were to terminate his contract.[/p][/quote]So CW either has to be paid off or given a year's notice. I can see IL giving him a year's notice which means he'll get one more chance to get Oxford up. The problem is it gives him one more chance to waste money on players who just aren't up to it in this league.[/p][/quote]I also have a sick feeling he'll still be at the helm next season! Underwhelmed would be the understatement of a lifetime YellowLAD

2:09pm Sun 17 Mar 13

Bathyellow says...

With regard to CW & Co, leaves IL with the problem of paying them off, bringing in fresh blood, which will probably keep the support up,bring in more revenue and counteract what he would have to pay CW to go, or keep them for another season serving up the same rubbish,lower gates, more lost revenue. Mr IL, the ball is in your court !!!
With regard to CW & Co, leaves IL with the problem of paying them off, bringing in fresh blood, which will probably keep the support up,bring in more revenue and counteract what he would have to pay CW to go, or keep them for another season serving up the same rubbish,lower gates, more lost revenue. Mr IL, the ball is in your court !!! Bathyellow

4:57pm Sun 17 Mar 13

karatavuk says...

We are in a downward spiral now with poor performances leading to lower gates and a smaller playing budget for next season. If Wilder stays we will struggle next season with small attendances as we are embroilled in a relegation battle.

Sack Wilder now before it is too late!
We are in a downward spiral now with poor performances leading to lower gates and a smaller playing budget for next season. If Wilder stays we will struggle next season with small attendances as we are embroilled in a relegation battle. Sack Wilder now before it is too late! karatavuk

5:23pm Sun 17 Mar 13

Coyyellows says...

35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that !
35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that ! Coyyellows

7:26pm Sun 17 Mar 13

foxvox says...

Coyyellows - were you there at the Rotherham game - or any other game this season? To say our fans (the ones who go to games) are fickle is ridiculous.
The chanting and the conga in the second half of the Rotherham game was second to none. Fickle no, fed up yes.
Coyyellows - were you there at the Rotherham game - or any other game this season? To say our fans (the ones who go to games) are fickle is ridiculous. The chanting and the conga in the second half of the Rotherham game was second to none. Fickle no, fed up yes. foxvox

8:23pm Sun 17 Mar 13

BigAlBiker says...

Unfortunately I am unable to comment on yesterday's game as I was away playing golf at a pre-arranged occasion but I am informed by my learned friends that yet again we let three points slip from our grasp, this home form is disappointing, and I read Beano should change sports and sign up for American football as a kicker.

Who do we blame, the players of course, but then again the manager signed them up.

Wilder out.
Unfortunately I am unable to comment on yesterday's game as I was away playing golf at a pre-arranged occasion but I am informed by my learned friends that yet again we let three points slip from our grasp, this home form is disappointing, and I read Beano should change sports and sign up for American football as a kicker. Who do we blame, the players of course, but then again the manager signed them up. Wilder out. BigAlBiker

8:37pm Sun 17 Mar 13

In_The_Nikon_Time says...

Coyyellows wrote:
35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that !
The fans play their part by handing over their hard earned wages every week to watch, if the team can only play when the whole ground is totally behind them says absolutely nothing positive about them. The fans do play their part by paying to watch. The players need to realise that at put in a full shift EVERY game.
[quote][p][bold]Coyyellows[/bold] wrote: 35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that ![/p][/quote]The fans play their part by handing over their hard earned wages every week to watch, if the team can only play when the whole ground is totally behind them says absolutely nothing positive about them. The fans do play their part by paying to watch. The players need to realise that at put in a full shift EVERY game. In_The_Nikon_Time

9:00pm Sun 17 Mar 13

Richard Wickson says...

Coyyellows wrote:
35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that !
I am sure I drive 320 miles to barrack the team. You must be a strange one if you think that the fans want the team to fail, maybe the odd one or two are masochists but not 5000 or so. As regard to a divine right to be in Division 4, no club or team has and most of us dont expect to just turn up and win but the problem with the current squad is they appear to lack ambition to even stay at this level let alone rise a Division. They can turn
Up and win games against top clubs but can't beat clubs at the same level as themselves, that would suggest they can be motivated when it suits them but find it hard to churn out results when they don't feel it's worth putting in a shift. Surely management need to rectify this situation. As regards to CWs contract, if indeed he is on a rolling contract then it could be a problem if IL decides to dispense with his services as I am sure he can't afford to pay a years salary for nothing, however it's a bit like affording to buy the ground, if we don't then we are in an impossible situation and will never improve either on the playing side or the financial side. But to do nothing and keep with the same old will have its effects too, the attendances will dwindle and the team will continue to fail meaning financial instability and relegation. Not an exciting prospect.
[quote][p][bold]Coyyellows[/bold] wrote: 35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that ![/p][/quote]I am sure I drive 320 miles to barrack the team. You must be a strange one if you think that the fans want the team to fail, maybe the odd one or two are masochists but not 5000 or so. As regard to a divine right to be in Division 4, no club or team has and most of us dont expect to just turn up and win but the problem with the current squad is they appear to lack ambition to even stay at this level let alone rise a Division. They can turn Up and win games against top clubs but can't beat clubs at the same level as themselves, that would suggest they can be motivated when it suits them but find it hard to churn out results when they don't feel it's worth putting in a shift. Surely management need to rectify this situation. As regards to CWs contract, if indeed he is on a rolling contract then it could be a problem if IL decides to dispense with his services as I am sure he can't afford to pay a years salary for nothing, however it's a bit like affording to buy the ground, if we don't then we are in an impossible situation and will never improve either on the playing side or the financial side. But to do nothing and keep with the same old will have its effects too, the attendances will dwindle and the team will continue to fail meaning financial instability and relegation. Not an exciting prospect. Richard Wickson

9:04pm Sun 17 Mar 13

Mark the Printer says...

In response to yellow Ad, I don't think that statement about paying Chris Wilder 12 months up front to relieve him of his duties is quite correct.

Mark the Printer - Wantage.
In response to yellow Ad, I don't think that statement about paying Chris Wilder 12 months up front to relieve him of his duties is quite correct. Mark the Printer - Wantage. Mark the Printer

9:10pm Sun 17 Mar 13

Richard Wickson says...

CoopersChris wrote:
I've only been watching The U's regularly for the last 6 years or so, having moved to the area from Nottm, but have had a season ticket in the East Stand for the last 3 years, and probably been to 1/3 of away games (Inc places like Accrington, Morecambe, Plymouth & York)
Clearly, the whole stadium situation is a major problem, and, as long as we remain at the Kassam, is never going to be resolved to our benefit, however, putting that aside, a few observations on this season;
1. I cannot remember a single home game this season, that I would describe as "enjoyable"... even the games we've won have been by the odd goal, often after a poor performance.
2. I accept the pitch isnt great, but we've been hoofing the ball out of defence long before the egg chasers came to town, and many of our opponents seem to have been able to pass the ball, whilst we cant.
3. Listening to CW and some of the players comments after the games, I wonder if I've been to a different game altogether. They seem deluded in the extreme, believing that we've "dominated games" where we've clearly been 2nd best. If these guys cannot see the problems, then what hope do they have of fixing them??
4. In CW and his coaching staff, we appear to have little or no experience of forward play, so its little wonder our attacking play is so limited. Constable is constantly offside (and for godsake, stop standing in front of the oppo's keeper when he's kicking it... all it does is make you offside if we win the ball from the kick!) whilst the movement from the others - Smalley, Craddock, whoever, is very limited. Compare this to the problems posed by opposing strikeforce', and the difference is massive... its just a good job we have Jake Wright and quality keeper(s) or we'd have lost far more games.
5. I sit with a lifelong Oxford fan, but we've both already decided that, unless things change dramatically, we wont be renewing our tickets for next year, and, based on the comments of many around us, we wont be alone.

Not renewing my ticket isnt a question of loyalty - Forest will always be my #1 team, but I've been happy to support my adopted club, home and away, which, the crowds would suggest is more than many so called "Oxford Loyals" - but wont do so to be subjected to the dross that I've seen, week after week this year.

This summer needs to see major changes in Management and players, or I think crowds of 3500-4000 will become the norm for next season.

Keep either Clarke or McCormick, Liam Davies, Wright, Batt, Whing & Potter.... the rest should all go, along with CW and Co

Disappointed and frustrated.
An excellent post, no negativity just pure facts, I admire the fact that you support a different team to your first love as you now live locally. Points 1,2,3,and4 are all absolutely spot on. The players are failing because the coaching is dreadfully poor, the pitch isn't good but the away teams don't find it as big a problem as the home team. The crowds will dwindle quite rapidly if there is no improvement, this isn't one of the cheaper grounds to view football and the fans will vote with their feet, I for one will seriously consider turning my ticket money over to Oxford City, at least they have a manager who tries, coaches who have an idea and players who have ambition, that I find appealing.
[quote][p][bold]CoopersChris[/bold] wrote: I've only been watching The U's regularly for the last 6 years or so, having moved to the area from Nottm, but have had a season ticket in the East Stand for the last 3 years, and probably been to 1/3 of away games (Inc places like Accrington, Morecambe, Plymouth & York) Clearly, the whole stadium situation is a major problem, and, as long as we remain at the Kassam, is never going to be resolved to our benefit, however, putting that aside, a few observations on this season; 1. I cannot remember a single home game this season, that I would describe as "enjoyable"... even the games we've won have been by the odd goal, often after a poor performance. 2. I accept the pitch isnt great, but we've been hoofing the ball out of defence long before the egg chasers came to town, and many of our opponents seem to have been able to pass the ball, whilst we cant. 3. Listening to CW and some of the players comments after the games, I wonder if I've been to a different game altogether. They seem deluded in the extreme, believing that we've "dominated games" where we've clearly been 2nd best. If these guys cannot see the problems, then what hope do they have of fixing them?? 4. In CW and his coaching staff, we appear to have little or no experience of forward play, so its little wonder our attacking play is so limited. Constable is constantly offside (and for godsake, stop standing in front of the oppo's keeper when he's kicking it... all it does is make you offside if we win the ball from the kick!) whilst the movement from the others - Smalley, Craddock, whoever, is very limited. Compare this to the problems posed by opposing strikeforce', and the difference is massive... its just a good job we have Jake Wright and quality keeper(s) or we'd have lost far more games. 5. I sit with a lifelong Oxford fan, but we've both already decided that, unless things change dramatically, we wont be renewing our tickets for next year, and, based on the comments of many around us, we wont be alone. Not renewing my ticket isnt a question of loyalty - Forest will always be my #1 team, but I've been happy to support my adopted club, home and away, which, the crowds would suggest is more than many so called "Oxford Loyals" - but wont do so to be subjected to the dross that I've seen, week after week this year. This summer needs to see major changes in Management and players, or I think crowds of 3500-4000 will become the norm for next season. Keep either Clarke or McCormick, Liam Davies, Wright, Batt, Whing & Potter.... the rest should all go, along with CW and Co Disappointed and frustrated.[/p][/quote]An excellent post, no negativity just pure facts, I admire the fact that you support a different team to your first love as you now live locally. Points 1,2,3,and4 are all absolutely spot on. The players are failing because the coaching is dreadfully poor, the pitch isn't good but the away teams don't find it as big a problem as the home team. The crowds will dwindle quite rapidly if there is no improvement, this isn't one of the cheaper grounds to view football and the fans will vote with their feet, I for one will seriously consider turning my ticket money over to Oxford City, at least they have a manager who tries, coaches who have an idea and players who have ambition, that I find appealing. Richard Wickson

5:47am Mon 18 Mar 13

BenkiuGuasu says...

Oh my god...you people are crazy...... sometimes you win...sometimes you lose....we're still on a good run, and have a chance to get in the play offs...but we have to stick together and push on up...
Oh my god...you people are crazy...... sometimes you win...sometimes you lose....we're still on a good run, and have a chance to get in the play offs...but we have to stick together and push on up... BenkiuGuasu

8:33am Mon 18 Mar 13

35 year fan says...

Coyyellows wrote:
35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that !
look i have no time for fans who boo or shout at the players/manager during the game. they are not supporters and we would be better off without them. but all clubs have them not just us. players have to deal with it.
[quote][p][bold]Coyyellows[/bold] wrote: 35year fan , stage fright at home ? Are you for real ! What do you expect when our fans are the most fickle in the land ,! Some of our fans turn up on a sat waiting for the other team to score just so they can jump on the teams back and start giving the lads s**t ! Every time the majority have got behind the lads , swindon , luton , yeovil , northampton , big games , they have produced ! soooo the fans should play there part and do the sane every week just as the fans expect the players too ! Our fans think we have a divine right to be in league 1 or above just because of the fan base , stadium size etc ! Get real , league 2 , tuff league , a few big clubs , always challenging ! We're lucky to be here after our conference days just think that ![/p][/quote]look i have no time for fans who boo or shout at the players/manager during the game. they are not supporters and we would be better off without them. but all clubs have them not just us. players have to deal with it. 35 year fan

10:24am Mon 18 Mar 13

bigchet says...

agree with benkiuguasu although dissapointed with sat still a long way to go and in with a chance so live in hopes.
agree with benkiuguasu although dissapointed with sat still a long way to go and in with a chance so live in hopes. bigchet

10:39am Mon 18 Mar 13

Sid Snakey says...

My 2 cents...

What a bizarre game of football. I'm scratching my head to work out how we lost. Chesterfield looked really edgy at the start of the match and I thought we would turn them over. And then they scored from what I think was their only chance of the first half.

The rest of the 2nd half was then attack vs defence, with Oxford being very close to scoring on numerous occasions.

Despite the fact that we were dominating, I was seriously worried at half time, because I have seen a lot of very poor 2nd half displays at the Kassam. Generally, I am supportive towards Chris Wilder but I do wonder what he says to them at half-time because in that 2nd half we were atrocious. It's the first time I've had my son nagging me to go home, because he had seen enough.

Sat as I was behind our left back, I have to say I don't know what Liam Davis was doing. He looked lazy, disinterested, unhappy and generally bored. I don't care what anyone says about the manager, Davis is a professional footballer who does a job we all can only dream of, and he is asked to perform for 90 minutes once or twice a week. I show more passion playing for my 5-a-side team.

Oh and the pitch - a tragedy for our fans who enjoy a passing game. So many passes didn't find the intended recipient. Players are instinctive, and it's hard to always remember to hit it harder than you would normally want to.

The play-offs are now beyond reach as far as I'm concerned, that was a match we should have won and you have to think that even if we got close to the top 7 again this season then we would probably bottle it.
My 2 cents... What a bizarre game of football. I'm scratching my head to work out how we lost. Chesterfield looked really edgy at the start of the match and I thought we would turn them over. And then they scored from what I think was their only chance of the first half. The rest of the 2nd half was then attack vs defence, with Oxford being very close to scoring on numerous occasions. Despite the fact that we were dominating, I was seriously worried at half time, because I have seen a lot of very poor 2nd half displays at the Kassam. Generally, I am supportive towards Chris Wilder but I do wonder what he says to them at half-time because in that 2nd half we were atrocious. It's the first time I've had my son nagging me to go home, because he had seen enough. Sat as I was behind our left back, I have to say I don't know what Liam Davis was doing. He looked lazy, disinterested, unhappy and generally bored. I don't care what anyone says about the manager, Davis is a professional footballer who does a job we all can only dream of, and he is asked to perform for 90 minutes once or twice a week. I show more passion playing for my 5-a-side team. Oh and the pitch - a tragedy for our fans who enjoy a passing game. So many passes didn't find the intended recipient. Players are instinctive, and it's hard to always remember to hit it harder than you would normally want to. The play-offs are now beyond reach as far as I'm concerned, that was a match we should have won and you have to think that even if we got close to the top 7 again this season then we would probably bottle it. Sid Snakey

1:07pm Mon 18 Mar 13

Doctor69 says...

Seriously, does anyone who thinks we are good enough to go up?
Personally i cannot see us putting enough results together to get into the playoffs, and even if we did somehow manage to get into them, and then progress, i can only see one thing happening next season.

We dont have the money to survive in league 1. IL wont bankroll the club, and why should he?

Its a sad state for OUFC at the moment. The drain of the staduim is a huge issue, buying it would be a huge investment. I really dont know what the answer is.

I still belive a change in manager would help, and sooner the better so they can review current squad.

Very, very dispointing at the moment.
Seriously, does anyone who thinks we are good enough to go up? Personally i cannot see us putting enough results together to get into the playoffs, and even if we did somehow manage to get into them, and then progress, i can only see one thing happening next season. We dont have the money to survive in league 1. IL wont bankroll the club, and why should he? Its a sad state for OUFC at the moment. The drain of the staduim is a huge issue, buying it would be a huge investment. I really dont know what the answer is. I still belive a change in manager would help, and sooner the better so they can review current squad. Very, very dispointing at the moment. Doctor69

5:23pm Mon 18 Mar 13

adlibber says...

Doctor69 Good post - You have to wonder whether Lenagan is wondering what on earth he was thinking when he took over the club? Maybe rugby was his real aim I don't know but the constraints placed by Kassam on the club should have put any potential investor off. We need a player&management clear out and a fresh start next season. Wilder really has run his course here and we won't go anywhere with him in charge. I've never know such an inconsistent team that can both defy and disappoint in equal measure. The future is bleak considering the lack of revenue and the rip off rent from Kassam. I guess we'll just have to see what Lenagan does in the summer? If he keeps Wilder on that'll be it for me I've no interest in watching such dull lifeless football or listening to Wilder's utterly inane post match comments.
Doctor69 Good post - You have to wonder whether Lenagan is wondering what on earth he was thinking when he took over the club? Maybe rugby was his real aim I don't know but the constraints placed by Kassam on the club should have put any potential investor off. We need a player&management clear out and a fresh start next season. Wilder really has run his course here and we won't go anywhere with him in charge. I've never know such an inconsistent team that can both defy and disappoint in equal measure. The future is bleak considering the lack of revenue and the rip off rent from Kassam. I guess we'll just have to see what Lenagan does in the summer? If he keeps Wilder on that'll be it for me I've no interest in watching such dull lifeless football or listening to Wilder's utterly inane post match comments. adlibber

10:56pm Mon 18 Mar 13

Doctor69 says...

Adlibber, I agree with you about next season, if wilder is still in charge I will not be renewing my ticket. I still love oxford, but I'm not really enjoying going right now which is a shame.

Lots of people think IL should just pump money in, I don't really agree. Sure it would be great if he did invest and made a move for the stadium, but really, what's the point? It's not exactly a sound investment. To be fair to him he has put a fair amount in already.

I don't know the ins and outs of the kassam deal, but surely oufc have to take some responsibility as they agreed a deal which they are now tied into? Personally I think the only other viable solution is try and come to an arrangment with City and devolp court farm? The reported asking price for the kassam is too high, and the rent is crippling, we will never progress until this issue is addressed.

I'm hoping for a major clear out this summer, it's got to happen. If it dosent next season will see lower attendances again, and I hate to predict it, but a likely fight for survival. A change of manager, some new players and a better balanced squad could breath life back into the club and at least bring back the Saturday enjoyment factor.
Adlibber, I agree with you about next season, if wilder is still in charge I will not be renewing my ticket. I still love oxford, but I'm not really enjoying going right now which is a shame. Lots of people think IL should just pump money in, I don't really agree. Sure it would be great if he did invest and made a move for the stadium, but really, what's the point? It's not exactly a sound investment. To be fair to him he has put a fair amount in already. I don't know the ins and outs of the kassam deal, but surely oufc have to take some responsibility as they agreed a deal which they are now tied into? Personally I think the only other viable solution is try and come to an arrangment with City and devolp court farm? The reported asking price for the kassam is too high, and the rent is crippling, we will never progress until this issue is addressed. I'm hoping for a major clear out this summer, it's got to happen. If it dosent next season will see lower attendances again, and I hate to predict it, but a likely fight for survival. A change of manager, some new players and a better balanced squad could breath life back into the club and at least bring back the Saturday enjoyment factor. Doctor69

11:37pm Mon 18 Mar 13

YellowLAD says...

Mark the Printer wrote:
In response to yellow Ad, I don't think that statement about paying Chris Wilder 12 months up front to relieve him of his duties is quite correct.

Mark the Printer - Wantage.
It was a contract given to him by the previous incumbent and friend Mr Thomas. Time will tell ofcourse.
[quote][p][bold]Mark the Printer[/bold] wrote: In response to yellow Ad, I don't think that statement about paying Chris Wilder 12 months up front to relieve him of his duties is quite correct. Mark the Printer - Wantage.[/p][/quote]It was a contract given to him by the previous incumbent and friend Mr Thomas. Time will tell ofcourse. YellowLAD

5:30pm Tue 19 Mar 13

Bathyellow says...

If OUFC were to consider going in with City ground sharing at Court Farm. Is it big enough there to be able to develop the ground in to say a 15000 all seated stadium ?. Location would be ideal with the ring road, dispersal of crowds after the match would be easy, pity we didn't go there in the first place.
If OUFC were to consider going in with City ground sharing at Court Farm. Is it big enough there to be able to develop the ground in to say a 15000 all seated stadium ?. Location would be ideal with the ring road, dispersal of crowds after the match would be easy, pity we didn't go there in the first place. Bathyellow

5:36pm Tue 19 Mar 13

Bathyellow says...

Another thought. Do City own Court Farm ?. If not, what is the situation there ?.
Another thought. Do City own Court Farm ?. If not, what is the situation there ?. Bathyellow

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