Oxford United continued their winning run at Grenoble Road under Gary Rowett with a 3-2 victory over Luton.
The U’s had to come from behind twice but goals from Michal Helik, Ciaron Brown and Greg Leigh ensured all three points.
Here are three talking points from the game.
Oxford United Win Against Luton
Character
This squad have shown character on several occasions this season – notably in the reverse fixture at Kenilworth Road having come from two goals down to pick up a first away point of the season.
But a much-changed Oxford, in terms of players and manager, showcased incredible character to come from behind yet again.
The manner of the Luton goals would have frustrated both Rowett and the players; both came from preventable set pieces. However, the U’s regrouped and despite a below-par performance, picked up the points.
Scrappy Game
With five goals in the game, neutral fans could have expected this to have been a thriller, but that wasn’t the case.
There were just eight shots on goal between the two sides and both teams surrendered possession far too easily on several occasions.
In addition, the ref handed out unnecessary bookings, stopped play when the advantage was there to be played and made some questionable decisions, including the failure to award Przemyslaw Placheta a penalty after he was bundled off the ball.
Despite the lack of quality, it’s another bow in the arrow for Rowett to be able to grind out a result when the tactics aren’t always going to plan.
Defensive Goals
With Dane Scarlett being recalled from his loan spell by Tottenham and Mark Harris finding the net just once in his previous 24 league games, it’s important for the rest of the squad to take a share of the goals – and they did here.
Helik opened his U’s account in just his second game for the club after poking home a Cameron Brannagan cross before Brown flicked in a Brannagan corner in the second half.
It was another midfielder to provide an assist when Will Vaulks delivered a deep cross and Leigh was completely unmarked to head home what proved to be the winner.
The game didn’t provide many more chances for either side, but it didn’t matter too much either way.
