Oxford United’s reserves ended their season with a 1-1 draw at home to Millwall this evening. United, fielding five triallists, were by far the better team and should have won comfortably, but were denied by the woodwork, by Lions keeper Terry Masterson, and by some profligate finishing. Oxford hit the post twice in the first half, through Ian Hillier and David Bayliss, and Craig Davies hit the bar. Masterson denied Davies and Tom Winters when both were clean through. Fifteen minutes into the second period United finally managed to break the deadlock when Masterson brought down Davies as the United striker tried to dribble the ball past the goalie. Davies himself neatly converted the spot kick with a low shot hard to the keeper’s right. Unfortunately Oxford were unable to increase their lead, and with ten minutes remaining Tony Craig headed home a free kick floated in from Millwall’s right.

Oxford had Bradie Clarke in goal, but the defence in front of him was comprised entirely of non-Oxford players. At right back was Luton’s Lee Mansell, with West Ham’s Danny Bunce at left back. The two centre backs were the impressive Hillier and Bayliss. In addition, United gave a long-awaited trial to Oxford City winger Gareth McCleary, who had given Terry Parker such a torrid time in the Oxfordshire Senior Cup final, the delay due to McCleary carrying an injury. McCleary was substituted for Kyle McCoy with about quarter of an hour to go. All the triallists gave a good showing, although Bunce was caught out of position on a few occasions. Unfortunately for them, new United manager Brian Talbot was absent as he had a prior appointment, the game having been arranged before he joined the Us.

Earlier today Talbot met up with the United players. The whole squad was present, with the exceptions of Juan Pablo Raponi (who, contrary to reports, had not already returned to Argentina, as he was present at the KasStad on Saturday), and Mateo Corbo, who flew to Spain immediately after the Chester game. It is possible, although unlikely, that we will see them in United colours again. Throughout the remainder of this week Talbot will be meeting with the Oxford players individually to discuss their contract situation, acting on advice from David Oldfield.