Oxford United Under-18s sealed the Youth Alliance South West League title following a 1-1 draw with Exeter City.
Mo Missanga’s first half goal was cancelled out by a late equaliser from Exeter’s Louie Cayless, meaning the points were shared at the Training Centre.
Oxford came into this one aiming to bounce back after a disappointing defeat to Swindon midweek.
Niall Keown named a strong eleven to take on the Grecians, with Kevin Appiah returning to the side for the first time since his injury back in November.
It was a slow start from both sides, with neither team able to grab a foothold on the game.
This was until Missanga completed a well worked-team goal to open the scoring. Ethan Dickinson-Annell was the provider for yet another tidy finish from Missanga, which put Oxford in the lead on the half hour mark.
The second half turned into a scrappier affair between the sides, with players from both teams going into the book.
Missanga came closest to doubling United’s lead, however, was denied only by the crossbar.
The visitors were given a late chance to get level. A penalty was awarded to Exeter in the 90th minute. Cayless converted from the spot and won his side a late point on the road.
Despite not picking up all three points, the Young U’s were still crowned champions of the Youth Alliance South West League. Oxford claim the title ahead of Plymouth Argyle, with three games to go in the season.
A final against AFC Wimbledon awaits them to see who is crowned Southern league winners. The winner of that will then face the winner of the North in the Youth Alliance League final.
It’s been an outstanding week for the Academy, becoming champions of both the Under-21s and now the Under-18s leagues.
Oxford United: Jackson, Palmer-Flynn, Osborne, Collins, Cramond, Appiah (Andrews 45’), Dickinson-Annell, Holton (Payne 87’), Purcell, Dourish, Missanga (Trialist 80’)
Unused sub: Jones
