Oxford United Chairman Grant Ferguson wrote the following notes for the programme for the Sky Bet League One game against Cheltenham Town on Tuesday evening:
Good evening everyone and thank you for coming along to join us for what has become an increasingly important home game against Cheltenham. Feels like we have been saying ‘they are all big matches’ for a very long time, but these last three games really are vital now.
I thought that when we played Portsmouth here a week ago there was an excellent atmosphere and it felt like we had taken a step forward, even if it did only end up a draw. There was a bit of character on display, essential right now, and very evident after we went a goal behind. The team didn’t panic and got back on level terms but couldn’t quite find a way to complete the comeback and win the game.
We then competed well for 45 minutes at Barnsley, keeping our shape and solid at the back, before somewhat cruelly conceding right on half time. Unfortunately, that changed the game and a second goal killed us off, even if we did create chances late on. Liam, the staff and the players have shown real togetherness in the last few weeks, and I am sure they will not let that loss affect their focus on what needs to be done. There is no time for anyone to feel sorry for themselves, but there IS still time to turn this wretched run around and pick up the points we need for safety.
Everyone at the club is doing whatever they can to first of all stay in League One, and then be successful next time around. We can’t change what happened earlier in the season, or indeed in previous seasons; mistakes were clearly made, and we must learn from these. There are two weeks left where every single one of us has to stay positive and work harder than ever before, as a group and individually.
It is also a big fortnight off the pitch where we have three ‘Listening Evenings’ in Kidlington, starting tomorrow. These are open events for local residents to come and meet us and to talk about the plans we have for a new home. As we have always said, that new home has to work for all concerned, so if you live in the area please come and join us and ask any questions you may have.
And finally, I would like to wish our women’s team the best of luck this week when they make the short journey to Watford on Thursday in another huge game against one of their title contenders. What a season they are having and, I am sure, rightly, what they have already achieved will be celebrated at the End of Season Awards.
Crucial times then for the women, the men, and for the new stadium. A time for mutual support and for everyone to Stand United.
Grant
You can read the full programme online at www.matchdayfix.com/oufc