Oxford United Under-18s secured bragging rights over their local rivals as a Jack Lee brace proved the difference in a 2-0 win against Swindon Town.
At a frosty Training Centre, the match started evenly with both sides cancelling each other out in the opening stages.
It wasn’t until the 20th minute when the first clear chance was created. Fresh from making his professional debut for the First Team in the FA Cup last weekend, Jack Lee broke through on goal before being tripped inside the box. The referee had no choice but to award United a penalty, which Lee confidently converted into the bottom-left corner.
The visitors showed fight to get back into the game, but their hopes took a hit when they were reduced to ten men in the 42nd minute. Swindon defender Noah Chapman flew into a late challenge on Lee and was given his marching orders. The half-time whistle soon followed with United having a goal and a man advantage.
In a strong position, Niall Keown made three changes at half-time by bringing on Euan Griffith, Liam Kiriisa and Isaac Odhiambo.
It only took six minutes for the Young U’s to double their lead. A cross from Ethan Dickinson-Annell fell to the feet of the lively Lee, who swivelled and produced a smart finish with his left foot to curl the ball past the goalkeeper. A fantastic all-round performance today capped off a memorable week for the young striker.
Chances continued to fall for United with Odhiambo and Tyler Andrews coming close to adding a third. The visitors were resilient despite the man disadvantage and almost got on the scoresheet as a goalmouth scramble was gratefully claimed by Will Jackson.
The referee blew for full-time soon after to confirm the victory and clean sheet on derby day. It gives the Under-18s strong momentum ahead of the Second Round of the FA Youth Cup away to Bristol Rovers on Tuesday 17 November. Tickets are available for the clash at the Memorial Stadium, which supporters can purchase HERE.
Reacting to today's victory, Jack Lee said: “It was a positive performance and it’s nice to get the win.
“I was out injured to start the year and it’s nice to have a little comeback, and the moment in the FA Cup last week was unreal.
“Today, getting some minutes, a run out and scoring was just lovely.”
Watch both of Lee’s goals HERE.
Oxford United: Jackson, Evans, Chitedze, Collins, Mainwaring, Holton, M.Vaughan, Andrews, Lee, Dourish, Dickinson-Annell
Subs: Osborne, Purcell, Griffith, Odhiambo, Kiriisa
