Oxford United has enjoyed a remarkable season back in the Sky Bet Championship, and the backing from you the supporters both home and away has played a vital role in the current success.
With one game to go, the Kassam Stadium will once again be at full capacity as we host Sunderland in a crucial fixture.
We want Saturday to be a celebration of what has been achieved, and a united effort to push the team over the line. But we must also be crystal clear and remind supporters on expectations around behaviour inside the stadium.
Abuse of any form towards stewards, medical staff, matchday staff, or anyone else will not be tolerated. These individuals are present for your safety and to ensure everyone can enjoy the matchday experience.
Sadly, this season has seen a small increase in unacceptable incidents involving threats and assaults on stewards, medical team, and matchday staff. We would like to once again remind all that any behaviour of this nature will not be condoned and the Club will take strong action against anyone found responsible.
We also would like to remind supporters of the protocols around medical incidents within the stadium on matchday. Earlier this year, Oxford United’s home game with Portsmouth was delayed by match officials to enable medical staff to treat a supporter suffering from a cardiac arrest. Thankfully, the onsite medical and safety team, alongside the help of supporters, worked at an incredible pace to ensure the safety of the person in question.
As per EFL guidelines, games should continue, unless the welfare of the supporter in question is specifically affected by the continuation of the match. Medical teams are strategically placed within stadiums, and if a supporter becomes unwell, we ask supporters to notify the nearest steward. The stadium’s medical team will then be alerted, and it is the role of the Club’s Safety Officer to assess whether the game should continue or not.
Supporters are asked not to alert players or staff on the pitch as in most cases the crowd medical team will be able to provide care as the match continues. A number of important safety and privacy matters must be considered when deciding to stop a fixture, and this is to be determined by the relevant authorities.
Finally, Saturday is the final chance to join at the Kassam Stadium, as the team hope to secure Championship survival. We want all supporters to be able to enjoy the season’s final game in Oxford and show their appreciation to the players and staff as they take part in a lap of appreciation after the final whistle.
This can only be done if supporters remain in the stands. Please, do not enter the pitch before, during, or after the game. Any pitch encroachment will prevent the lap of appreciation from taking place and may result in sanctions against individuals involved. The Club has a zero-tolerance approach and will issue Banning Orders or Acceptable Behaviour Contracts where necessary.
Saturday promises to be a special day, and we are counting on every Oxford United fan to contribute to a safe, respectful, and celebratory atmosphere. Let’s finish the season with the same passion and pride that has defined this campaign, united together.
Thank you for your outstanding support.
