Oxford’s reserves fought out a goalless draw against Southend’s second string at Court Place Farm this afternoon. In hot conditions the reserves looked strong, and had a couple of good chances to win in the last five minutes. Although United’s Chris Tardif was slightly the busier keeper, he was never really troubled as the Us’ defence kept Southend at bay.

Jude Stirling at right back didn’t really do his chances of being offered a contract much good, with an inconsistent performance. He looked good attacking the ball and in the tackle, but less competent when in possession. Lee Molyneaux did very well alongside Leo Roget, but he limped off to be replaced by Tom Franklin with about ten minutes remaining. Roget also looked strong, and in the second half he usually had the better of Southend’s Shaun Goater, playing his first game since he was released from Reading. Due to the traffic, Goater only arrived midway through the first half, and Southend actually played the first 20 minutes with just ten men, rather than use up any substitutes. At left back Ben Gunn often showed why he is a central defender.

Kyle McCoy started on the right wing, and often threatened with his pace, while Neil Barrett failed to impress and was replaced by Josh Kennett with 20 minutes left. Rob Wolleaston showed that he is getting back to his best, with some excellent moves and always wanting to be involved. Hopefully the watching Brian Talbot will have noticed. Rob Hughes played the full match on the left wing and, although he had a quiet first half, he came into the game more in the second period.

Up front Jamie Brooks and Danny Morgan started, with Morgan in particular looking stong and fit. Brooks faded as the game went on, and he was moved to the right wing after McCoy was substituted for Billy Beechers. It was Beechers who had the best chance of the match with five minutes to go, but Bart Griemink did well to save his shot from six yards.

This was a good workout for the lads, with gaining match fitness probably more important than the result, although Tardif and David Oldfield will doubtless be pleased with the clean sheet. Notably, almost the whole first-team squad was at the ground (absentees being Craig Davies and Lee Mansell), and they were all subject to a long talk by Talbot during the half-time break. Mark E’Beyer was also in attendance, although he wasn’t involved, and even Danny Brown showed up to watch his former colleagues. There may have been no goals, but it was a lovely day.