Executive chairman Darryl Eales discusses the Orient game
In the Oxford United programme for the game against Leyton Orient, executive chairman Darryl Eales writes:
Welcome to this afternoon's game against Leyton Orient.
The game at Brisbane Road earlier in the season was highly entertaining, with Orient rescuing a point after being 2-0 down. Under Kevin Nolan, they have moved into play-off contention and I am delighted to welcome their fans, players and officials for what should be another exciting game.
We are now at the business end of the season - after today there are just 10 league games to go and they will all be mini cup finals. Last week’s game at Plymouth epitomised this. It was a superb game, probably the best I have seen this season. Once again, our support was magnificent throughout and made for a brilliant atmosphere. I have also received three emails from Plymouth fans complimenting the team on its style of play - testimony, I believe, to Michael's playing philosophy.
On the Friday evening before the game, Michael, Derek and a few of the coaching team joined me for a special dinner and tour on HMS Bulwark. It was a wonderful start to the weekend and our special thanks go to Captain James Parkin – now a fully paid up Oxford fan – and his crew for their great hospitality.
It was also the Plymouth weekender, which proved to be a great success and I hope there will be more themed weekends which attract more families and friends to away games.
Taking of themes, today is Women in Sport Day. This is a celebration of the importance of continuing the progress that has been made in encouraging more women to participate in sport, especially football, and the timing is spot on as we approach the start of the new WSL2 season. Oxford United Women are a great success story and this season will have a young squad full of home-grown players. They are an integral part of the club and I hope more and more fans take the time to watch their home games at Abingdon; their first game is Thursday 24th March against Millwall Lionesses. See you there!
Continuing the upbeat theme, Wembley ticket sales are now over 30,000 - both remarkable and fantastic. We will continue to publicise the game across the county, encouraging as many as possible to join us on what should be a wonderful day out. There is an extensive range of merchandise on sale as part of the drive to 'turn Wembley yellow'. Take a look online or, even better, visit the shop. We have a series of evening openings on each Thursday leading up to Wembley, with guest appearances from players and management.
Enjoy the game and COYY!
Darryl
You can buy the programme for £3 from sellers around the ground or online from www.matchdayfix.com/oufc