Orange crush

Oxford lost 1-0 at home to relegation rivals Blackpool in Denis Smith's first game in charge of his former club. The Tangerines' scorer was John Murphy who headed home in the 18th minute. Peter Fear started the game in midfield with Paul Powell dropping back into defence in place of Jon Shepheard and Derek Lilley partnered Nigel Jemson up front in place of Jamie Cook. Simon Weatherstone came on for Jemson and at the same time Steve Anthrobus replaced Lilley. With ten minutes to go Rob Folland replaced Fear. The game was preceded by a meticulously observed minute's silence in tribute to Martin Aldridge (whose family was present) and Harry Thompson. A match report is available here.

Papa Powell

Young Paul Powell became a father on Thursday when his girlfriend gave birth to a daughter.

Calypso Manor

United is giving a trial to a Trinidad & Tobago international, following the granting of a work permit by the authorities. We believe that he is a striker (although it's possible that he's a spin bowler) and that another Caribbean international might follow shortly.

The goals, the goals

Whilst United's current crop of players don't know where the goal is the players we've previously off-loaded can't stop scoring. The two Deans, Saunders and Windass, grabbed the goals which defeated Arsenal 2-1 at Valley Parade. Midfielder Bobby Ford scored the last goal for Sheffield United as they beat Tranmere 3-1 at Bramall Lane.