Oxford United defeated Blackburn Rovers 1-0 at the Kassam Stadium, extending their unbeaten streak under manager Gary Rowett. Cameron Brannagan's free kick proved the difference between the two sides.
Oxford United extended their unbeaten streak under manager Gary Rowett with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over playoff contenders Blackburn Rovers at the Kassam Stadium . Cameron Brannagan 's unstoppable free kick in the 67th minute, his first goal since the season's opening day, proved decisive. The win marked four victories and two draws for the U's since Rowett took charge on December 22nd, solidifying their mid-table position and a six-point cushion above the relegation zone.
In contrast, Blackburn's fortunes have dwindled, with this defeat adding to a concerning trend of just one win in their last six league outings. Despite remaining in fifth place, thanks to Middlesbrough's loss at Portsmouth, Rovers are now under pressure from West Brom, Watford, and Middlesbrough, who are all within a point of catching them. Blackburn's goal-scoring struggles this season have been evident, with only 31 goals in 27 games, despite securing narrow 1-0 victories on six occasions. However, against Rowett's revitalized Oxford side, Rovers offered little resistance and could have few complaints about the final scoreline, as Aynsley Pears was significantly busier than his counterpart, Jamie Cumming.The first half was a tactical affair with both teams cautiously probing for an opening. Mark Harris briefly put the hosts ahead in the 10th minute, reacting quickly to convert after Ruben Rodrigues's shot forced Pears into a save. However, the goal was disallowed for offside. Rovers responded with John Buckley's long-range effort narrowly missing the target, and Andreas Weimann's shot was blocked by Cumming.The second half saw Oxford emerge with renewed vigor, with Przemyslaw Placheta forcing a fine save from Pears in the 54th minute and Harris's subsequent effort being blocked. The breakthrough arrived just after the hour mark when Callum Brittain's challenge on Siriki Dembele resulted in a yellow card and a free-kick five yards outside the penalty area. Brannagan seized the opportunity, unleashing an unstoppable shot that soared into the far corner of the net. Blackburn rallied late in the game, but their efforts were ultimately in vain, with Owen Beck, Brittain, and Dominic Hyam failing to convert their chances as Oxford held firm
Oxford United Blackburn Rovers Gary Rowett Cameron Brannagan Football League One Kassam Stadium
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