United, who are top of the table, visit Rochdale on Saturday in an attempt to consolidate their position at the top of the table. Top of the table United will almost certainly be without Scott McNiven, stretchered off last Saturday after twisting his ankle, and ROS Chris Hackett or Dave Waterman stand by to replace him. Paul McCarthy could also be in contention for a return to the side after coming through another 90 minutes for the reserves, who aren’t top of the table, yesterday.

Apart from McNiven, Ian Atkins is unlikely to change his top of the table side, although he does have options on the bench. Mark Rawle may be fit enough to return to the table-topping squad, in which case he would probably replace Manny Omoyinmi.

Rochdale, who are not top of the table, are in fact 19th in the division after being humiliated 4-0 by Atkinsless Southend on Saturday. Southend, who are another team not at the top of the table, are likely to remain Atkinsless for the foreseeable future after the Oxford boss stated his happiness to remain at his top of the table side today. Dale will be without left back Dale Simpkins and record signing Paul Connor. Rage Online expects the divisional leaders to be held to a 1-1 draw by the home side, which wouldn’t be so bad considering that United (did we mention that they are the leading side in Division Three?) have never won at Spotland. Until Saturday, possibly.