George Dugdale

The close season is a frustrating period for football fans, but possibly for none more so than Tim Rackley and the staff of The Priory. The thriving hub of the Oxford United match day experience during the season, the pub suffers in the summer months when the football crowds are absent. However, news of a groundshare with London Welsh could signify a change in fortunes.

Tim kindly took time to speak to Rage Online ahead of an exciting period for The Priory.

The news of a ground-share with London Welsh has been met with some disappointment from Oxford United fans. What does the arrival of rugby at the Kassam Stadium mean for The Priory?

The financial pressures will cease now that we have the rugby. The past two years have been very difficult. The Swindon fixture saved the day, although the loss of the play-off revenue hit us hard. The Priory with a marquee, Portaloos, staff and four security at evening games is expensive to run. It's not viable if I am honest but over the 12 month periods, I seem to keep it all going.

I wanted out this July but Marstons, Firoka and the rugby persuaded me otherwise. I delayed signing until June 14th, only two weeks before the lease ended, so it was a gamble. However, Firoka dropped the rent and Marstons put