Chris Wilder on Cup exit
Oxford United manager Chris Wilder was left full of heart despite seeing his side get knocked out of the FA Cup by League 1 high-flyers Sheffield United on Saturday. Afterwards, the U’s boss told Yellow Player that The Blades won the match in the final third.
“They maybe deserved to go through with the quality they showed in the crucial moments, particularly with the free-kick and the third goal. We pushed them all the way though and have had our moments, where if we’d shown a touch more quality there might have been a different outcome. Our decent little run in the FA Cuphas gone so we’ve got to go again. “
United more than matched their higher league opponents throughout the game, but Chris reflected on some key moments that didn’t go their way.
“I think we had two or three really good chances, Tommy’s had one just before half-time and again near the end and then there’s Justin’s in the second-half. I think there were a couple of other things regarding the referee like that decision in the first half which led to Tony McMahon curling the ball into the top corner, but that’s how it goes. It’s all ifs and buts but we do find ourselves out of the FA Cup with nothing to be ashamed of. I think the scoreline has hurt us and maybe we didn’t deserve that.”
34 places separate the two teams in the Football League with Sheffield United 3rd in League 1, and The U’s currently 13th in League 2. Chris is now hoping his team can pick themselves up and go on another unbeaten run.
“I think we played like a decent League 2 side and they’re a top League 1 side. I think some of our players can play higher up, they’ve just got to show that now and they have done recently. The consistency levels have been good in the ten-game unbeaten spell. We’ve got five or six players out still but if we can get a few of them back then we’re more than capable of going on another good run.”
United can move a step closer to Wembley in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy tomorrow night with a win over Southend in the Area semi-finals. Tickets are still available for the match by clicking on www.oufctickets.co.uk or calling 01865 337533