United rescue a point – it might yet be enough

Oxford drew 2-2 at Ashton Gate today in an entertaining game. United started strongly and deservedly took the lead when Paul Powell scored from close range after just ten minutes. The lead lasted for eleven minutes before Alex Meechan equalised for Bristol City. Oxford's defensive frailties were evident once more when Aaron Brown put City ahead in the 38th minute. This time, however, the U's refused to lie down and die and with 22 minutes to go Steve Davis scored what could prove to be a vital equaliser for United.

Steve Anthrobus started up front instead of Nigel Jemson, with Derek Lilley and Matt Murphy switching roles between partnering Anthrobus and playing at right wing. At half-time Denis Smith made two important substitutions, replacing Eddie Newton and Neil McGowan, neither of whom appeared match fit, with Simon Weatherstone and Rob Folland. With ten minutes to go the improbable, but ultimately sensible, happened when Les Robinson was replaced by Jamie Cook, allowing Folland to switch from left to right back and Powell to drop back into defence. McGowan was booked for dissent after conceding a free kick which led to City's equaliser. 9,046 were at the game, which you can read about here.

Most of Oxford's relegation rivals were unable to match United's point, allowing the U's to climb out of the drop zone, one point ahead of Cardiff who lost 2-0 at home to Bury. Scunthorpe also lost, 2-0 at home to Stoke, although Blackpool managed to beat Bristol Rovers 2-1 despite being a goal down at half time to climb above Scunthorpe on goal difference, both teams now three points behind Oxford. Cambridge ensured their survival (barring an improbable chain of events) by beating Preston 2-0. If Oxford beat Scunthorpe next Saturday then Scunny will be relegated. The real good news of today is that, following their 3-0 drubbing at Stockport, swindon are definitely relegated.

Of the three former Oxford players currently at Bradford it was the least likely scorer, John Dreyer, who got the goal which beat Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. Millwall's opening goal in their 2-2 draw with Gillingham was scored by Paul Moody. Nick Cusack scored the only goal as Swansea won at Mansfield.