Oxford United visit Gateshead tomorrow for their first ever match against the Heed. This historic occasion occurs just after United lost three records during their 2-1 defeat at Mansfield Town on Tuesday. Mansfield's first goal was the first that United had conceded in over six games, setting a new record for league fixtures. The defeat was Oxford's first of the season; it was also United's first away defeat since Chris Wilder's first match in charge, when the Us lost 2-1 at Salisbury City on Boxing Day 2008. The run lasted for 15 games, beating the previous record of 14 games set at the end of the 1983-84 season (nine games) and the start of the 1984-85 season (five games). United also went 11 games unbeaten away during the 1952-53 season, and ten games unbeaten away in 2006-07. None of this really matters, but some might find it interesting.

The big question is whether or not United will be able to bounce back at the Gateshead International Athletics Stadium tomorrow. Chris Wilder will certainly be looking for a positive reaction from his players. Rhys Day has resumed full training, but is unlikely to be thrust into a competitive game just yet, while Marcus Kelly remains sidelined with a dodgy toe. Kevin Sandwith turned an ankle so Steven Kinniburgh looks likely to remain at left back, while Alfie Potter is doubtful with a virus. This means that young Aaron Woodley could be named as a substitute and, if he plays, he would be just the fifth 16-year-old to feature for United since they joined the Football League. His birthday is on 13 October, so he won't break any records, but his progress is vindication enough for the continuation of United's youth policy. Adam Murray, who took a nasty knock at Field Mill, is fit to play, while Jack Midson's recent performances mean that he is a strong possibility to start alongside James Constable.

In contrast to United's recent defensive strength, Gateshead's 0-0 draw with Rushden & Diamonds on Tuesday was their first clean sheet of the season. Gateshead are in 18th place, just one point above the drop zone, hampered by a serious injury to Martin Brittain, signed from Kidderminster Harriers at the start of the season. That was during a 0-0 draw with Hayes & Yeading, but after Brittain's injury the Gateshead players refused to return to the pitch and the points have since been awarded to Hayes. Despite the distance, Rage Online are quietly confident that Oxford can get the three points tomorrow. The team will be travelling part of the way in advance and training at Sheffield Wednesday's facilities. [@opponent]gateshead[/@opponent] [@connection]gateshead[/@connection]