Oxford United to Face Portsmouth in League One Semi-Final Playoff

Oxford United have been drawn against Portsmouth in the League One play-off semi-final after the EFL decided to curtail the current season.

The two sides finished level on points and shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Fratton Park earlier in the season. But how have U’s fans reacted?

Oxford United to Face Portsmouth in League One Semi-Final Playoff

EFL Decision

Earlier today, the EFL decided to curtail the current campaign. Oxford were one of a small number of clubs that wanted to fulfil the remaining fixtures but clearly, time was an issue.

Final league positions were been decided on an unweighted points-per-game system, with promotion and relegation upheld. Only the playoff matches will take place.

Oxford Against Portsmouth

The U’s are unbeaten in the previous three meetings between the two sides but Pompey won the two prior. In the last ten meetings between the sides, there have been four draws and three wins each.

The two sides played out a 1-1 draw at Fratton Park earlier this season, with Matty Taylor scoring a 90th-minute equaliser. However, the coronavirus pandemic and suspension of football came in before the reverse fixture at the Kassam Stadium.

Oxford Reaction

Needless to say, the reaction from U’s fans has been one of excitement. After finishing the season in fourth – the clubs highest finish since 1998/99 – the club will be looking to secure promotion to the second tier of English football despite starting the decade in non-league.

Here are some of the reactions:

Congratulations to the whole club, players, coaches, staff, commercial etc, etc. It's going to be strange (massive understatement) not being there in person, but know that every single fan is behind you over the next few weeks 💛💙

— SiOUFC (@sihath1) June 9, 2020