Oxford United is set to face Derby County on Saturday, October 18, at 12:30 PM. This match comes after the international break, with both teams eager to improve their standings. Oxford United will be looking to end a disappointing run of form.
Can We Talk? Matchday Initiative
This Saturday marks the first “Can We Talk?” Matchday for Oxford United, aimed at raising awareness about mental health issues. The club has partnered with Baton of Hope to highlight the importance of mental health and suicide prevention.
Supporters can meet the Baton of Hope team at the Exhibition Bar, where they will provide resources and host short seminars at 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM. Both teams will warm up in special shirts promoting this initiative, with signed shirts auctioned off after the match to support local mental health services.
Recent Form: A Snapshot
Oxford United
- Last five matches: 1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses
- Most recent match: Defeat to Watford
- Goals scored this season: 10
Derby County
- Last five matches: 1 win, 3 draws, 1 loss
- Most recent match: Three consecutive 1-1 draws
- Goals scored this season: 11
Head-to-Head History
Oxford and Derby have faced off 16 times since their first encounter in 1968. The U’s have had a significant advantage, remaining unbeaten in over half of those matches. Since both teams found themselves in League One in 2022, they have met six times. Derby has two victories, while Oxford has one, with three draws.
Last season saw both encounters end in draws, including a 1-1 result at the Kassam Stadium.
Key Player Connections
- Louie Sibley: Joined Oxford in 2024 after 173 appearances for Derby County.
- Dave Langan: Played for both clubs, helping Oxford win the Second Division title in 1984.
- Paul Simpson: Notable player for both teams, scoring 50 goals for the U’s and 48 for Derby.
- Tommy Mooney: Top scorer for Oxford in the 2004/05 season, with a brief loan spell at Derby.
Tactical Overview of Derby County
Under head coach John Eustace, Derby County has adopted a high-intensity style of play. They have been effective on the road, losing only once in four away league games this season.
The team employs a 4-2-3-1 formation, providing stability and attacking width. This approach has resulted in only four goals conceded across their last five matches.
Match Details
| Kick-Off | Venue |
|---|---|
| Saturday, October 18, 12:30 PM | Kassam Stadium |
Fast Facts
- Oxford’s recent match form: 1 win, 2 draws, 2 losses.
- Derby’s recent match form: 1 win, 3 draws, 1 loss.
- Oxford is unbeaten in their last two 12:30 PM matches.
- Top scorers: Will Lankshear (3 goals for Oxford), Carlton Morris (4 goals for Derby).
Both teams are gearing up for a crucial match that could influence their positions in the league, and the spotlight on mental health adds a unique dimension to this fixture.
