Rochdale preview

United make another long trip up the M6 on Saturday when they visit Spotland, home of Paul Simpson's Rochdale. Oxford will be desparate to get Tuesday's disappointment out of their system, whilst Rochdale will be seeking revenge for their 2-0 defeat at the KasStad in November. Ian Atkins will almost certainly recall Matt Robinson to left wingback to replace Paul Powell, who started off well against Wrexham but whose lack of match fitness soon became apparent. Another change might see Dave Waterman recalled to central defence in place of Christian Edwards, who failed to impress on Tuesday (as, admittedly, did Scott McNiven and Matt Bound, leaving just Andy Crosby as the only reliable defender).

In midfield Bobby Ford didn't do enough to justify his recall to the starting line-up, although there may perhaps be justification for bringing him in and moving Roy Hunter to right wingback in place of McNiven. Alternatively Dean Whitehead could probably be more useful on the pitch than kicking his heels on the bench (if he's lucky).

Up front Andy Scott and Steve Basham continued their excellent partnership in the first half against Wrexham, but both faded from the picture in the second period, when their service dried up. They are both likely to retain their starting places though, despite Lee Steele unluckily having a late goal ruled out for offside.

Rochdale have fallen away from the promotion contenders after making the play-offs last season. They will be looking to put their excellent FA Cup run into context with a win over United, who will be hoping that Dale's cup exertions will be taking their toll on Simmo's side. Last season's fixture ended in a 1-1 draw, with Paul Moody scoring an equaliser for United. Following their win at home the Us will be looking to do the double, and so far their record against teams they've already played seems to favour the side that won the first fixture (except Darlington, which throws this theory into the bin). However, predictably, Rage Online predicts a 1-0 win for the Lancastrian side after Tuesday's confidence-shattering match.