Oxford United's hopes of winning the Oxfordshire Senior Cup this season were dashed at Ardley on Tuesday evening as the home side scored three goals without reply.
The U's went a goal down to Anaclet Odhiambo's early strike, and a second half goal from Lewis Gabbidon extended the scoreline. Deep in stoppage time, Tyrae Njogu rubbed salt in the wound when he converted from the penalty spot to set up a final against Thame United, who beat Oxford City on penalties.
United fielded a young side, with George Franklin, wearing the captain's armband, the most senior player, while Aaron Lacey and Kasway Burton were also involved.
Odhiambo drew first blood in just the ninth minute as he raced through United's backline and coolly lobbed goalkeeper Ajae Patel, who had no chance with the shot.
Charlie Cramond came to Oxford's rescue five minutes later, clearing off the line as Odhiambo got a toe to the ball to prod it past Patel.
In the 17th minute Kasway Burton got his head to a corner and powered the ball goalwards, but there were enough Ardley defenders in the way to prevent an equaliser.
Patel had to be alert to get down to a low shot from Mason Courtney to prevent Ardley extending their lead before the break.
In the fifth minute of the second half United broke from an Ardley corner, and Leo Snowden charged into the area but was unable to keep his shot down. Snowden got another shot away three minutes later but it was an easy claim for goalkeeper John Roberts.
The second period was largely fought in midfield, with Oxford having the better of the few chances there were. That was until an Ardley corner was headed home at the back post by Gabbidon 13 minutes from time to give the U's an uphill battle, literally, as the Yellows were playing up the steep slope.
Oxford did create chances to get back into the game through Burton and Louis Griffiths, but it just wasn't to be for the youngsters against an experienced Ardley side that included former United player Declan Benjamin at full back.
With time running out, the home side were awarded a penalty for handball and Njogu made no mistake from the spot.
This setback should not detract from an excellent season for United's youngsters, who are top of their league and in the Youth Alliance Cup semi final.
UNITED: Patel, Lacey, Cramond (Missange 78), Bangurah (Blackmore 57), Franklin (Gardner 65), Doyle, Burton, Bradney, Lee, Griffiths, Snowden
Unused subs: Holton, Abolade
