Oxford United saw their three-game unbeaten run come to a disappointing end with defeat on the road at Swansea.
The hosts led 2-0 at the break and Gary Rowett’s side were unable to find a way back into the fixture.
Here are three talking points from the game.
Read More: Team News, Form and Predicted Line-Up as Oxford United Travel to Swansea
Oxford United Lose at Swansea
Conceding From Set Pieces
Oxford headed into this game having already conceded nine goals from set pieces and there were a further two in South Wales.
First, Jamie Cumming flapped and missed a deep ball from a free kick, allowing the Swans to head home the opener.
The second was similar to the goal Oxford conceded last time out against Ipswich. The corner was whipped in and while this time it was headed away, the opposition had a player unmarked on the edge of the box to fire home.
No Impact From Subs
Against Ipswich, Rowett’s changes changed the game in their favour but against the Swans, the quartet had little impact.
Filip Krastev, Stan Mills, Luke Harris and Mark Harris all had disappointing first Half’s but Nik Prelec, Hidde ter Avest, Ole Romeny and Will Lankshear also offered little when they came on with half an hour remaining.
The latter two did have late chances but were unable to make any significant impact.
Insipid and Lacklustre Performance
Overall, it was just a disappointing performance from Oxford in South Wales.
Despite a promising opening five minutes, the U’s were on the back foot for large parts of the remaining 85.
There was a lack of desire and commitment from the players and, despite an inspiring win over Ipswich last time out, there was even a lack of confidence and ideas on the pitch, or from the dugout.
Featured image courtesy of IMAGO / PPAUK
