Oxford United Women have a huge National League Cup game this Sunday when they take on local rivals Swindon Town at Court Place Farm (12KO).
Liam Gilbert’s side will be fresh after having their midweek clash with Hounslow called off due to a waterlogged pitch.
Sunday’s game is the Preliminary round of the competition, United having reached this stage with a 2-1 win at AFC Wimbledon last month.
Swindon play in National League Division One South West, one tier below the U’s in the pyramid. and Gilbert knows that controlling emotions will be important on derby day.
“The mentality is one game at a time and that Sunday isn’t any different to other games and obviously it is a cup game, and we want to progress.
“The group we have got are great and we won’t change who we are regardless of the opposition.”
“We have our own identity and stick to that and that’s what we will do on Sunday.”
The United women’s boss is also hopeful of a big crowd to cheer his side on.
“It is a fantastic opportunity to get fans in, hopefully for the entire day for the double header with the Mickey Lewis Memorial Game and go to both events.
“It will also give us a great opportunity to show new spectators what we are all about.”
Men’s first-team manager Karl Robinson will be at Court Place Farm, among the many who will take in the derby before heading to the Mickey Lewis Memorial Game later in the afternoon.
Robinson said: “It is a really big one, me and many of the first team squad including Matty Taylor and Cameron Brannagan will be there for both games. It is against Swindon, and we do need that support.”
Tickets
Adults- £5
Concessions-£3
Under 16-free
Supporters who hold a Women’s Team Season Ticket, Men’s Team Season Ticket, or match ticket to the Mickey Lewis Memorial Match can gain access to the showdown with the Robins for just £1.