by Clyde1998 »
13 Dec 2023 14:52
Disappointing game from an entertainment factor, but getting a draw wasn't the worst result.
Thought we controlled most of the first half, whilst Oxford controlled most of the second. Neither side really created much aside from the goals - Oxford probably should've done better with that chance where they had two-on-one, but their attacker couldn't lift the ball over Button. The only other incident they could've scored from was that shot that went narrowly wide towards the end. Feel we should've gone for it more in the second half - we seemed content to get a draw.
Abbey and Dorsett each had a particularly poor game last night: both consistent losing possession in dangerous areas; somewhat surprised they were both taken off though. Along with Yiadom, our defence seemed to linger on the ball for far too long - even when we had multiple chances to clear the ball. That Yiadom incident in the six yard box was a very lucky escape for us. Our ball retention was poor overall last night though.
Holmes did well, although was arguably at fault for their goal - along with Dorsett for allowing the cross to come in so easily. Surprised Bindon didn't start, but I think Selles was wanted a more physical presence in defence for this game.
Vickers never really got into the game; surprised he lasted as long as he did. That said we didn't have a wide player on the bench who I think would've made an impact last night - all too lightweight for a game like this.
Great ball by Wing for our goal and Smith took the finish well; whether he was onside or not, I don't know - the highlights didn't clear anything up as the ball had been played at least a second before Smith comes into view.
For a side in the play-off picture, I thought Oxford were poor. They were probably around the level of Barnsley, but don't seem to be much more than a mid-table side who've had a good start to the season based on that showing. It's games like the last two that should remind us there's not much of a gulf between the top sides and bottom sides in this division - small improvements can easily lead to good results.
As discussed after the Carlisle game, the following chances are based on teams carrying on performing as they are in terms of xGF and xGA (YMMV):
Reading's relegation chance: 43% -> 39%
Oxford's top two / play-off chance: 3% / 42% -> 2% / 39%