50th Anniversary of one of Oxford United's greatest ever days
This weekend marks the 50th anniversary of perhaps United’s finest-ever game.
On 15th February 1964 mighty Blackburn Rovers, second in the First Division, visited the Manor in the FA Cup 5th Round. United of the fourth division were given little chance by the experts but a superb performance in front of a then Manor Ground record crowd of 21,700 saw The U’s triumph 3-1 to become the first team from the fourth tier to reach the FA Cup quarter finals.
The final whistle was marked by an impromptu pitch invasion, the Oxford supporters carrying their heroes shoulder high from the field.
Tony Jones with two goals and Bill Calder with a late third earned United the win as captain Ron Atkinson and his team became heroes.
United were to win promotion the year after but that one game, 50 years ago, put Oxford United on the map.
We have a special look back to that day in Saturday’s Matchday Magazine when the current United side take on Mansfield Town, looking to match the heroes of the ‘60s with a promotion push.
Tickets are available for Saturday’s game from www.oufctickets.co.uk and 01865 337533.