Oxford United are awaiting the outcome of their challenge to Jamie Cumming's sending off, a ruling that may lead to their starting goalkeeper being suspended for three matches. The appeal was lodged after Cumming received a red card in last week's drawn game with Barnsley, a 1-1 result on Saturday 31 October where Mark Harris scored the equaliser, and a decision is anticipated ahead of the midweek home game versus Reading. Oxford, who sit fourth in League One on 23 points from 12 games, face a Reading side currently sixth on Wednesday 4 November.
Reading boss Leam Richardson has voiced criticism over how long the appeals procedure takes, suggesting verdicts should be delivered in a single day. "Yes, I do think they should be appealed because if it's not a red card, why should a player be punished by missing games?" Richardson said. He argued that teams should not have to serve suspensions if a mistake was made by the match officials. Richardson added that the uncertainty disrupts both teams' planning for an important fixture.
Defensive preparation
Oxford are aiming to have an important defensive player ready for the League One meeting, a match where a team in fourth position faces one in sixth. Preparations at both clubs account for the possibility of either Jamie Cumming or reserve goalkeeper Simon Eastwood playing. Oxford United hold fourth place and are undefeated in their last several league matches, with a recent form of two wins and three draws from their last five games. The team has scored 20 goals and conceded 11 this season, giving them a goal difference of plus nine. Head coach Des Buckingham said the squad has practiced with both keepers and must be prepared for any result from the appeal.
League stakes
The result carries weight for the League One standings. A victory for Reading would move them above Oxford, who seek to continue their undefeated sequence and close a six point gap to the league leaders. Oxford's most recent match was the tied game at Barnsley, where Mark Harris netted the leveling goal. Harris is the club's top scorer this season with six goals in 12 appearances. The imminent appeal verdict will decide if Cumming can play in Wednesday's contest at their home ground. Buckingham emphasized the match's significance, stating points are vital in a close promotion battle. Oxford's unbeaten run includes a 1-0 win over Stockport County, a 0-0 draw with Bradford, a 2-1 victory against Wigan, and a 1-1 draw at Mansfield Town prior to the Barnsley fixture.
Background and full detail: Oxford Mail
