Oxford United have seen their season come to an end but the final game was very much one of underwhelming tone, much like the entire campaign.
Also this week, there was a new deal for a U’s youngster while Liam Manning was shortlisted for Manager of the Month for April.
Oxford United Weekly Round-Up: Season Summed Up With Final Day Defeat
Youngster Pens New Oxford United Deal
Oxford began the week with the news that young defender James Golding had penned a new long-term deal with the club.
The 18-year-old, who signed his first professional contract last summer, has had a productive campaign, which includes a call-up for the Republic of Ireland U19 squad and a successful loan spell with Banbury United.
Speaking to the club’s official website, U’s boss Liam Manning said: “he is one for the future. He is a good athlete, good on the ball and reads danger really well.
“He’ll maybe be a little frustrated not to have had more opportunities this year but as Gatlin O’Donkor and Tyler Goodrham have shown we do believe in giving young players the chance to show what they can do.
“James got into the team very young but he is still only 18 and I am sure he will be determined to make his mark in the first team next season.”
Golding added: “I’m grateful to be given the opportunity and the longer contract gives me that little bit of security.
“Oxford have been great with me and the new Manager has shown a lot of faith so I want to repay that. It’s up to me now to work hard over the summer, come back ready and push on again.“
Manager of the Month Shortlist
Oxford boss Liam Manning was then shortlisted for the League One Manager of the Month award for April.
The U’s head coach guided the club to safety with wins over Cheltenham Town and Forest Green Rovers, while also picking up vital points against Peterborough United, Sheffield Wednesday and Portsmouth.
Steven Schumacher (Plymouth Argyle ) and Mark Bonner (Cambridge United) were also shortlisted but it was Kieran McKenna of Ipswich Town that picked up the award.
Final Day Defeat
Oxford’s final game of the season was very much a microcosm of much of the campaign – dominating the match but ending up losing the game.
The U’s took an early lead against an already relegated Accrington Stanley and could have been out of sight by half time.
However, two second-half goals from the visitors earned the Lancashire side all three points at Grenoble Road.
