Oxford United claimed their first League One victory of the new season with a 2-1 win over Steven Hampstead in Hertfordshire. Gatlin O'Donkor and Cameron Brannagan both found the net in the second half, turning a 2-2 draw from the opening match into a triumph.
Former Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, who took charge of the Yellows last month, said the win was a result of three key changes to the side and the system.
"It’s just having the right players, changing the system and things like that for the opposition," Ramsey said after full-time. "I’ve got a squad that are more than capable of playing and I’m really pleased."
The first change was the inclusion of fringe players Peter Kioso and Louie Sibley, who performed well against Boro, and Michal Helik, who added physicality against a rough opposition. Ramsey noted that all three made an impact in the match.
The second change was a tactical shift. Ramsey said he had rotated the squad to find the best balance for the game. "I’m going to rotate this season. I’ll need every single one of them players," he added.
The third change involved Stan Mills, who returned to the fold this weekend. He started on the bench before coming on to assist O'Donkor’s opening goal.
Brian De Keersmaecker missed out again, while Greg Leigh was not selected for the second league game.
Ramsey praised the team’s defensive work, especially in the first half. "We defended the box superbly, our distances were brilliant and that gave us the platform then to take the game to them second half," he said.
Stevenage had only lost twice at home all season, making Oxford’s victory a significant achievement. Ramsey said the win proved the team could overcome opponents who try to prevent the United from playing their preferred style.
"We know how difficult a place this is to come," Ramsey said. "They only conceded 14 goals at home last season. So, yes, it’s a really tough place, but a test that we stood up to."
Ramsey also highlighted the importance of rotation for future matches. "Everybody’s got a role to play," he said. "Every match we’ll probably see different rotations and things like that, but everybody’s just as important as each other."
The win also gave Ramsey confidence that his system can work against strong opposition. "It’s not an emotional decision on players being dropped and things like that. It’s about what’s best for the next game and what questions we can ask of the opposition," he added.
Oxford United’s victory over Stevenage was a clear sign that the new manager’s approach is starting to bear fruit, with a squad that can adapt and perform when it matters.
Stan Mills assisted O'Donkor’s opening goal, a concrete detail that underlined the impact of Ramsey’s tactical changes.
