Despite a win on Tuesday night, Oxford United saw their promotion push end on Saturday with defeat against Rotherham United.
The result will be a bitter blow for Karl Robinson’s side after two seasons of losing in the playoffs, despite reaching a higher points tally this season.
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Promotion Opportunity Over Despite Midweek Win
Win Over MK Dons Moves Oxford United to Two Points Off the Playoffs
Oxford kept their playoff hopes alive with a dramatic 1-0 win over promotion rivals MK Dons.
The visitors could have been out of sight by the break, with the U’s failing to have an attempt on goal. Oxford were also grateful to Ciaron Brown who cleared an effort off the line.
However, after the restart, the U’s looked fired up and could have taken the lead through Matty Taylor. Instead, they had to wait until the 86th minute when Billy Bodin smashed home from close range after winning the ball back from the Dons defender.
The result moved Oxford to two points off the playoffs ahead of a crucial game away to Rotherham.
Oxford United Attacker Wanting a New Deal
Match-winner Bodin is hoping to extend his future at the club in the coming weeks. The 30-year-old penned a one-year deal last summer following his release from Preston North End but has played an important role this season.
Speaking to the Oxford Mail, he said: “I’ve said I’d love to stay, I’ve told the manager and he wants me to stay.
“I think it’s just about sorting something out in the next couple of weeks and hopefully that will happen.”
Bodin has notched five goals and four assists in his last 12 matches, after he was restricted to only 11 appearances before the turn of the year, largely due to injury.
He added: “Even in pre-season when I came in I really enjoyed it.
“I got an illness and a little niggle and that stopped me playing, which is what you enjoy most.
“Since I’ve been in the team and playing well it’s gone up a notch.
“I’ve missed playing every week for probably two years, so to be getting a decent run has been great for me.
“I still feel like I can do more in this team.”
Playoff Hopes Diminished With Loss Against Rotherham
Oxford’s chances of promotion were ended on Saturday as the U’s lost 2-1 at promotion rivals Rotherham United.
Karl Robinson’s side took an early lead when Sam Long’s cross was turned into his own net by Dan Barlaser. However, the Millers levelled the game in first-half stoppage time.
After the break, Luke McNally conceded a penalty and the hosts took the lead from 12 yards. The U’s were unable to find a way back into the game and results elsewhere meant the chances of promotion are over.
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