ARCHIVE: Cobblers friendly draw boosts Oxford United hopes for Division 4 campaign

1964

OXFORD United officials were confident they can make a definite impression in the Fourth Division this season – and on the evidence of a 2-2 draw with Second Division Northampton Town in pre-season, their optimism was

well-founded.

Although they faded towards the end, United had done more than enough to merit the result in what was easily the brightest of their friendly displays.

With only days to go to the start of the League programme, United awaited the arrival of Crewe Alexandra believing it would take a really good side to beat them at the Manor.

1984

OXFORD United striker Steve Biggins looked set to stay at the Manor.

He rejected a chance to sign for Wolves and instead appeared likely to sign a new U’s deal.

Fellow striker Mick Vinter was having further talks with Mansfield, their manager Ian Greaves was hopeful the £15,000 move would go through.

But Biggins, the former maths teacher who turned down the chance to join Plymouth earlier in the summer, decided not to go to Molineux for ‘personal reasons’.

“The reasons are between myself and Wolves,” he said.

“I’m disappointed because Wolves is near to my home and they are a big club, but it looks as if I will sign for Oxford and fight for my place.”

1995

A TOUCH of class from summer signing Wayne Biggins helped Oxford United through a potentially tricky Coca-Cola Cup tie at Hereford.

Biggins won a first-half penalty with his version of the Johan Cruyff turn and then put away the spot-kick in style.

The free transfer signing from Stoke had to go off a few minutes later because of a trapped nerve, but his replacement Matt Murphy added a second goal just before the end to give Oxford a healthy 2-0 advantage ahead of the second leg.

Said Biggins: “I’ve lacked a bit of confidence over the last couple of weeks, but I’ve been short of fitness.

“It was a relief to get the penalty and a relief to score from it.”