Oxford United head to Portsmouth this weekend with just one win from their last six league games.
Pompey sit seven points clear at the top of the table and have picked up four wins from their last five.
Ahead of the trip to Fratton Park, we take a look at a classic clash on the south coast.
Classic Clash: Portsmouth 1-4 Oxford United (2013/14)
Oxford Run Riot
Oxford are currently without a win in seven visits to Fratton Park but the U’s did have a good record at that ground prior to this run.
However, their best result on the south coast came on the opening day of the 2013/14 season when the U’s won 4-0.
The opening day of the new League Two season was significant for Portsmouth, with the south coast club being fan-owned for the first time after a turbulent spell of off-the-pitch problems.
And they came out the blocks quickly when Patrick Agyemang put Pompey ahead after heading home Andy Barcham’s cross.
Deane Smalley levelled shortly after before Alfie Potter put the visitors ahead from close range.
Pompey’s Johnny Ertl was sent off for an elbow on Danny Rose and Oxford took full advantage with Potter and Smalley both claiming their second of the afternoon in front of a record attendance at Fratton Park.
Oxford United Manager Chris Wilder Told BBC Radio Oxford
“Fair play to Portsmouth and all they’ve been through. Guy (Whittingham) has had to work extremely hard over the summer to get a team out there and there was an unbelievable occasion to be involved in.
“I’m delighted for my players and for the support we had today.
“The sending-off made it easier for us but I felt we shaded a decent game today.
“We do things the right way and it is game one of 46 and we have had a fantastic start.”
This Weekend
As mentioned, Oxford have struggled to get a result on their recent visits to Fratton Park, but have managed several credible draws.
Given the gap in league positions and current form, U’s fans may take a point now but if one team will run riot like Oxford did ten seasons ago then you would expect it to be the hosts.
