Just one win in six during November for Oxford United, but Des Buckingham’s side did face a couple of tricky fixtures.
Oxford United November Round-Up
Close Games
Oxford United began the month with their first home defeat of the campaign. Des Buckingham’s side lost 2-1 against Swansea, who were the better side at Grenoble Road.
However, they bounced back just a few days later with a narrow victory over Hull. In a much-changed team, Hidde ter Avest netted on his full debut to give the U’s a fortuitous win.
Before the international break, Oxford lost on the road at Watford. In what was arguably the best away display of the season, the U’s dominated large parts of the first half but conceded just after the restart. They would spurn further chances late on but were unfortunate to leave Vicarage Road empty handed.
There was plenty of action for Oxford’s players during the international break, with all of those selected get a variety of minutes. We have a full round-up of that break right here.
Tricky Run
Oxford returned from the international break with a heavy defeat at home against Middlesbrough. The U’s took the lead but three goals before the break for the visitors turned it on its head. Boro added a fourth shortly after the restart before Dane Scarlett reduced the deficit. However, Michael Carrick’s side’s quality showed with a further two goals.
The U’s were then outplayed again as Des Buckingham’s side lost at former manager Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United. The Blades won 3-0 at Bramall Lane and Oxford were unable to get into the game.
Oxford ended the month still without a win but a credible draw against Millwall. The Lions headed into the game in fine form and often hold out when taking the lead, which they did here, but a wonder-strike from Tyler Goodrham earned a deserved point.
