Oxford vs Gillingham

Oxford failed to achieve a victory for the third consecutive match. After the defeats against Morecambe and Northampton, on Monday they welcomed Torquay ( 2-2 ). Unpredictable game in the first half, when Torquay took the lead scoring a goal in 17′, while Oxford came in second half and reversed the score with two goals, however, Torquay, although they stayed with ten players, believed to the equalizer and succeeded a little before full time and took the important point. Oxford presented improved in relation to recent games, but they still did not managed to win. With the continued loss of points they might be out of promotion playoffs, as Crewe and Gillingham chasing them. Questionable for today’s crucial game is main goalkeeper Ryan Clarke. Injured remains main striker Tom Craddock and midfielder Peter Leven, while midfielder Alfie Potter will miss the remaining of the season. Main defender Michael Duberry returns from punishment.

 

Gillingham suffered a painful home defeat on Monday against Dagenham with the score of 1-2. Since the beginning of the match Dagenham showed that they were the best team on the field, with good ball movement, and a few minutes before the end of the first half, they opened the scoring. Gillingham appeared nervous and despite the fact that they equalized early in the second half, they failed to impose their game. Dagenham was not content with the draw, and scored a second goal and finally got the victory. With this result Gillingham missed a great opportunity to get closer to the playoffs positions and to approach different today’s crucial match. The four points which separate them from Crewe and Oxford means that they want only victory today, if they want to retain any hope for playoffs. Main midfielders Danny Jackman and Jack Payne are out, while defender Matt Fish is doubtful.

 

Both teams in hunt of three points for the promotion playoffs battle, and both having lot of defensive problems recently to their matches. A draw is not a good result for both, specially for Gillingham. I expect a totally open match with more than two goals to be scored.