Oxford v Swindon: A Clash of Ideologies

When we refer to the rivalry between Oxford and Swindon, we are used to emphasising the differences between us. “They're not like us, they're...different” seems to be the prevailing discourse at both ends of the A420. However, in many ways the two clubs are rather similar. Both have a similar-sized core support, have each won a major trophy, spent just a few short years in the top flight and are both clubs who have traditionally lurched from one financial crisis to the next.

However, in the true spirit of rivalry, we're not going to focus on any of that stuff right now. Instead, this article looks at the contrasting ideologies dictating the way these two rivals operate. Most obviously, and most publicly, this is exemplified by the people in the dugout.

What the Stats Say...Macclesfield

Having previously bemoaned the fact that we always seem to play sides when they're out of form,along come a woefully out of form Macclesfield to prove me wrong. With Oxford marooned in seventh place, six points behind Torquay and five points ahead of Port Vale, this match must be seen as a good chance to get points on the board. And yet, this being Oxford, we all know it won't be that straightforward. Here's Matt Peck with the stats on a fixture that has become rather a regular occurrence in the last decade.

Clarke the Saviour

Not for the first time in the last few years, we (and Damian Batt in particular!) owe Ryan Clarke a huge debt of gratitude for his penalty-saving brilliance, without which the Barnet match would probably have ended in another frustrating home draw. More impressive is that he played at all, given that he had been up all night with illness.

Subsequently, there have been plenty of figures flying around; some say it's 11 saves from 14, others say 10 from 15. Having scoured the archives today, I make it that Clarke has faced 17 penalties in competitive matches, saving 7 of them. Not as sensational as some thought but pretty impressive nonetheless. Interestingly, of the 9 penalties Clarke has faced in the Football League, he has saved 6.

What the Stats Say...Barnet

As seems to have been the case all season with our opponents, it is an in-form Barnet who make the relatively short trip to Oxford for this rearranged game, as well as a return for former player Sam Deering. Matt Peck looks over the stats ahead of the match.

What the Stats Say...Bristol Rovers

Our next test is a tricky away tie against an in-form Bristol Rovers. Bristol Rovers have had a poor season so far, but have picked up considerably following the dismissal of Paul Buckle and the appointment of Mark McGhee. With the final playoff place on the line, Oxford will be hoping to push on from Tuesday's stuttering win over Dagenham, while Rovers are hoping to mount a late charge to sneak into that final place. Here's Matt Peck with the stats.