Des Buckingham picked up his first league win as Oxford United this week as the U’s claimed four points from their two games.
A draw at Reading – a first meeting between the two rivals in 19 years – was followed by a comfortable victory over Burton Albion.
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Rivalry Reunited and First League Win for Des Buckingham
Thames Valley Derby Ends Level
Oxford began the week with the first Thames Valley derby since 2004 but it ended level against Reading.
Buckingham’s side took the lead with Ciaron Brown heading home a Stanley Mills cross but former U’s striker Sam Smith levelled before the break.
Oxford dominated possession but were unable to find a winner in Berkshire, despite being backed by 3,000 fans.
Brannagan on Oxford United Loanee
Cameron Brannagan believes that U’s goalkeeper James Beadle has a huge future ahead of him and hopes he remains at the club for the rest of the season.
The 19-year-old, who joined Oxford on a season-long loan from Brighton in the summer, has been a key player for the club, keeping eight clean sheets in 23 appearances.
Speaking to the Oxford Mail on Thursday, the Oxford midfielder said: “He’s been ace. It’s great to have him behind us, and he’s a great kid, which is the most important thing.
“He’s come in and done fantastic, and hopefully he stays as long as possible.
“He’s great with his feet, with shot-stopping and his all-round game is fantastic.
“He’s a young kid, and just needs to keep building and working on what he’s good at. I’m sure he’ll play at the top, in my eyes.”
Win Over the Brewers
Des Buckingham picked up his first league win in charge of Oxford with a 3-0 victory at home against Burton.
Ruben Rodrigues kept his composure on two occasions to put the result beyond doubt before Marcus McGuane bent home a stunner late on to seal the win.
It was also another clean sheet for Beadle following his praise from Brannagan earlier in the week.
The result moves Oxford up to third in the table, just one point behind second-placed Peterborough.
