Oxford United Chairman Grant Ferguson wrote the following programme notes for this evening's game against Shrewsbury Town:
No doubt it has been a good start to the season and, like you, everyone behind the scenes is enjoying our progress. It is most certainly a case of so far, so good, and I am sure that it we stay grounded and work hard to keep improving, we can continue to build the club and the team from here.
I have spent most days in the last two weeks at the training ground, and it is very encouraging to see the hard work that goes on there across the club. We are fortunate to have incredibly talented people who work together, support one another and are dedicated to improving all of our teams. Like the players they support, there is no getting ahead of ourselves, just quiet satisfaction that we are on the right track and a determination to keep improving.
I was encouraged that the same attitude prevailed at Stevenage on Saturday. Having conceded the first goal, the team just stuck to their principles, kept doing what they had worked on in training, and in the end, their calmness and work ethic allowed them to win in some style. That said, they were also aided by an incredible travelling support that encouraged them from beginning to end. Thank you to all who attended. You really do make a difference. With the Reading game postponed, we now have three consecutive home games that provides a great opportunity to keep things heading in the right direction.
It was nice to meet some of the young fans who were enjoying the Family Away Day on Saturday. That was a nice thing to be involved in, another way we are building the next generation of Oxford fans. Playing attractive football undoubtedly helps, but there is more to it than that. We are trying to foster a lasting connection from the pitch to the stands so that all fans feel welcome and engaged with their club. That’s why I salute the #HerGameToo day we had here at the l last home game, and the Fair Play campaign that we highlight tonight.
I was delighted that Elliott Moore committed his future to the club last week and I thought he showed why he is a key part of this team on Saturday. He is a leader and inspiration on and off the field. A wise head on young shoulders, and knowing he wants to be part of what we are building here is a major boost for the club.
Thank you for being with us this evening and I know you will get behind the team. I really enjoyed the atmosphere at the Exeter match, and I know Liam and the guys really value your support. I hope by the end of the night we are all still smiling after making another step in the right direction.
Grant Ferguson