Safety net removed

United's hopes of staying in the football league at the end of next season have receded slightly with the news that Third Division clubs have unanimously voted in favour of the financial package that could lead to two teams being relegated to the Conference. This will still have to be ratified by all 72 Nationwide League clubs at their AGM in June, but with the approval of the division three crowd it is difficult to see it being turned down. The second promotion place from the Conference will probably be decided with a play-off system.

Two former United players looking for work over the Summer are Matt Murphy, released by Bury for being crap, and Les Robinson, transfer listed by Mansfield for being old. With luck they will be able to find work elsewhere, both far away from Oxford. Arjan Van Heusden has been offered a one year contract by Exeter City.

Meanwhile Paul Simpson was yet again on target for Rochdale, scoring their second goal in their 2-2 draw at Rushden in the Div Three play-offs. Cheltenham scraped a draw at Hartlepool with a last minute goal.