By Alfie Marlborough
Dons are back to winning ways after beating a struggling Oxford at the Kassam this afternoon.
How the teams Lined-up:
Oxford; Eastwood, Long, Findlay, Bodin, Brannagan, Browne, Brown, Henry, McGuane, Joseph
Dons; Cumming, Lewington, Tucker, O’Hora, McEachran, Smith, Oyegoke, Grant, Harvie, Devoy, Dennis
It was a lively start in Oxfordshire with the hosts having the majority of the ball through the opening stages. Dons had a good chance when Conor Grant was played in by Dawson Devoy, but the U’s were able to win it back after the Irishman attempted to cut it on to his right foot. Oxford should have gone ahead in the 42nd minute when Marcus Browne was free in the box and fired a shot which hit the post before Brannigan’s effort from the rebound cannoned off the bar. Minutes later, the Dons put themselves ahead after Matt Smith was played through by Devoy and his effort was deflected into the net.
Oxford won a free kick early on in the second half which Cumming spilled but was able to gather the ball at the second effort. Both teams from then on were scrappy with Oxford had a few half chances but were unable to capitalise. It was all quiet up until the Dons were awarded a penalty after Grigg was brought down by the keeper after being played through by Smith. The number 9 slams it top bins to “Double the Dons” lead.
Minutes later, the U’s half the deficit after Mousinho was able to turn home from a corner. Oxford continued to pile on the pressure in the closing stages, but the Dons remained strong and resilient and were able to see out the game to earn a crucial three points.
No more games until October for the Dons now due to the international break but a good way to go into it for sure! The Dons leapfrog the U’s and move up to 18th place!
