A quiet week for Oxford United ended with a 1-1 draw on the road at MK Dons. We also have transfer news and results from the academy sides to bring in this roundup.
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: League One Stalemate and Derby Delight for Youth Teams
Young Duo Stay Away On Loan
Oxford youngsters James Golding and Will Owens will remain away from the club on loan.
Defender Golding has extended his deal with Andy Whing’s Banbury United while striker Owens has teamed up with Evesham, where he will join fellow loanee Eddie Brearey under the stewardship of former U’s defender, Mike Ford.
Double Derby Delight for Oxford United Youngsters
Ahead of the senior sides’ visit to MK Dons, it was a good day for the young U’s with two victories over rivals Swindon Town.
Gatlin O’Donkor netted a brace as the U19s won 4-1 at the club’s training ground while the U16s were also involved in a five-goal thriller, eventually winning 3-2.
🎥 All the action from the U19s 4-1 win over Swindon Town yesterday 👌🏻
Which is your favourite of our goals?
🟡🔵 #OUFC | #COYY pic.twitter.com/L4gj6XnpML
— Oxford United Academy (@AcademyOUFC) February 12, 2023
Winless Run Continues With Draw at MK Dons
Oxford United ended their four-game losing streak against MK Dons but were unable to leave Buckinghamshire with all three points.
The U’s fell behind with yet another goal from outside the box but Leeds United loanee Lewis Bate struck a brilliant effort 20 minutes from the end.
Oxford had late chances but neither Kyle Joseph nor Yanic Wildschut were unable to convert.
The result sees Oxford drop one place to 16th ahead of the visit of table-topping Plymouth Argyle on Tuesday night.
Long Makes 200th Oxford United Appearance
Oxford-born defender Sam Long made his 200th appearance for the club when the U’s took on MK Dons.
In doing so, he became the fourth player currently at the club to hit that milestone, after Simon Eastwood, Cameron Brannagan and James Henry.
Having signed his first professional deal in 2013, Long is now the club’s longest-serving player.
Speaking to the Oxford Mail, he said: “It’s taken me a while, earlier on in my career I struggled a little bit with injuries, but it’s a very proud moment.
“It’s a great achievement for anyone at any club, especially your hometown club, it means a little bit more.
“It’s very special to get to 200 and hopefully there’ll be many more to come.”
