There’s a second derby of the week on Saturday when Oxford United’s under 18s welcome Swindon Town to the Oxford Sports Park.
It’s the first game of the second stage of the season. Having won the EFL Youth Alliance South West Division the U’s now go in to what would usually be the Merit League where they play the top teams from other divisions. However because of covid protocols games will be played on a more local basis.
With one eye on next season the successful U18 squad has been split into two bubbles: second year scholars such as Sam Johnson, Callum Crook, Kie Plumley, Tyler Goodrham and Jack Gardner are with the U21 group, preparing for a home game against West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday.
The U18 group will be younger for the rest of the season as a result, combining first year scholars with a number of under 16s. The exception is first year goalkeeper Eddie Brearey who has been training with the First Team and will continue to be part of that bubble.
Saturday’s game is behind closed doors but we will have a report, reaction and highlights right here.