Oxford United's CEO Tim Williams wrote the following programme notes for the Sky Bet League One game against Leyton Orient:
A warm welcome to all our supporters, to the Leyton Orient team and to their fans who have made the journey to be with us for today’s match.
It’s extraordinary to think that we are already only 12 games away from the end of the season and, whilst it’s stating the obvious, it’s a long season. With 46 games alone in the League it is a very demanding schedule for all of our players, coaching staff and support staff.
One of the main talking points this season has been the amount of added time in matches. I can’t say I have done the full maths on this one, but I am pretty sure that we have played at least five more minutes of additional time per game compared with previous seasons. That doesn’t sound like a lot, but over 46 games that’s 230 minutes or the equivalent of nearly two-and-a-half extra games.
As we are seeing across football at the moment, there has been a significant rise in the number of injuries squads are suffering. We know only too well the impact that can have. For those of us who are lucky enough to witness what each and every one of our players does on a day-to-day basis, we know exactly what they go through to keep themselves fit and to ensure they are in the best possible condition. To stand on the touchline at training or at a match demonstrates just how athletic and talented these young individuals are, and a long season, as we have experienced this year, puts an enormous strain on fitness and athletic performance. I can never take for granted how hard our players work.
However, there is an intangible that can add to all of our player’s performance and that is you, our supporters. We all have a part to play in making this team successful. From the players on the pitch to the fans in the stands, we are all Oxford United. Your continued support is crucial as we strive for success. The atmosphere you create in the stadium is not just important, it’s vital.
When I speak to Des and the players, one common theme comes out – and that is they are desperate to hear you from the stands. As a club, our fans are the lifeblood of what we do and who we are, but the boost you can give to the team on a Tuesday evening or a Saturday afternoon by just singing that bit louder, cheering that bit more, can be the difference. So please, today, don’t hold back. Get behind every player on the pitch and make your support seen and heard. Your passion, your voices, and your belief in the team make all the difference.
Finally, there is perhaps one person on the pitch today who might not get too many cheers, and that is our referee today, Simon Shaw, who officiates his last ever game. Without match officials, we have no game, so please can you show your gratitude to Simon at the beginning of the game for what can often be a thankless job.
Enjoy today’s game.
Thank you.
Tim
You can read the full programme online at www.matchdayfix.com/oufc