A dedicated Oxford United supporter has returned to watch the team at the Kassam Stadium for the first time in eight years. Colin, a resident at Highmarket House care home in Banbury, attended the League One match against Cambridge United, which finished 1-1, after his wish was granted through a special community programme. Cowley explained that the initiative is part of their commitment to enriching the lives of those in their care, and Colin's wish to return to a match was a perfect example, coming as the team enjoys a positive league position of third.
Fran Cowley, the home manager, said the staff are committed to fulfilling residents' dreams. "We are always looking for ways to make residents’ wishes come true," Cowley stated. The visit was arranged via the home's Wishing Tree initiative, which encourages residents to share personal aspirations for staff to help realise.
Colin's passion for Oxford United started in childhood, and he regularly attended games with his wife Sara, who also became an active fan. His return to the stadium saw him participate in a prize draw on the pitch before kick-off and meet players as they left the tunnel. "Seeing how happy Colin was throughout the trip was truly priceless," Cowley said of the experience, noting that the day was filled with emotion and nostalgia for the lifelong supporter.
The heartwarming community story comes as Oxford United enjoy a strong spell on the pitch. The Yellows are third in League One, having taken 26 points from their opening 13 matches. Their recent form reads three wins and two draws from the last five, an unbeaten run that includes a 2-0 victory over Reading last time out. Manager Des Buckingham has praised the team's resilience and attacking intent throughout this positive start to the campaign. That recent victory was followed by a 1-1 draw at Barnsley, where Mark Harris scored the equaliser, and preceded by wins over Stockport County and Wigan. The team's solid defensive record of 11 goals conceded complements their 22 goals scored.
With 22 goals scored this season, Oxford's attack has been potent, led by top scorer Mark Harris with six goals. The team now looks ahead to their next challenge, an away fixture against Peterborough on Saturday 14 November, a match that will test their automatic promotion credentials against a side currently sitting 22nd in the table. Sitting just three points off the top, Oxford will aim to continue their unbeaten run of three wins and two draws in this upcoming fixture.
Background and full detail: Care UK
