The last game of another long season rolls around on Saturday as United entertain (if that’s the right word) Rochdale at the KasStad. This should have been the game that symmetrically rounded off Oxford’s sojourn in the basement division, Dale being the Us’ first opponents here in the doldrums, but sadly United blew it. Oxford have been playing with relegation form since the New Year, and for the past couple of months many fans have been resigned to Division Three footy next season.

Andy Crosby is likely to return to the defence, having served his one-game suspension, although that’s by no means certain. Graham Rix is likely to want to play some of the fringe players who might be in his sights to retain for next season, although that might mean only fielding half a team. Hopefully Matt Robinson will be fit enough to play, as most United fans would like to see him offered a new contract and he has had little chance to show Rix what he’s capable of. Up front Jefferson Louis could again get an opportunity, possibly alongside Mark Rawle. Matt Bound, who played for the reserves in their 3-1 defeat at Swansea this afternoon, could also feature, while it will be interesting to see whether Barry Quinn will be included in midfield.

Rochdale are now safe from relegation and are also likely to take the opportunity to take a look at players who haven’t featured much during the season. The pressure will be off both teams, although Oxford are probably more desperate for the victory given that they haven’t had one yet under Rix. Rage Online’s prediction is, well, who really gives a toss?

Oxford’s reserves emulated the first team, losing their second game in a week as they went down 3-1 at Swansea. Bound was the only player who had first team experience in the side, which conceded three quick goals shortly after half-time, before Craig Davies pulled one back. United included two triallists in their side: Terry Parker, a left back from Portsmouth, and Ian Hughes, a prolific striker from Slough Town, who was formerly with Hayes.