Oxford United secured a 2-1 victory over Stevenage in a tightly contested match, with Cameron Brannagan netting a late penalty to seal the win. The hosts dominated the second half after a goalless first half, with Brannagan converting the decisive spot-kick in the 89th minute. Stevenage, despite a strong first-half display, could not find an equalizer as Oxford's resilience proved decisive.
First Half: Stevenage's Early Pressure
Stevenage started brightly, creating several chances in the opening 45 minutes. Captain Carl Piergianni was a constant threat from set-pieces, meeting deliveries into the Oxford area but failing to convert. Dan Kemp came close after losing his footing, while Josh Magennis saw a penalty appeal rejected following a challenge inside the box. Oxford gradually grew into the game, with Lewis Freestone making a crucial clearance off the line to preserve the scoreline. Stevenage were forced to make an early substitution when Jasper Pattenden was replaced by Jordan Houghton after sustaining an injury.
Second Half: Oxford's Comeback
Oxford intensified after the break, testing Stevenage goalkeeper Filip Marschall with an early effort that flew narrowly over the crossbar. Cameron Brannagan then forced a save from Marschall with a dangerous free-kick. The breakthrough came on 66 minutes when substitute Gatlin O’Donkor headed home to give Oxford the lead. Stevenage responded with a flurry of substitutions, introducing Terry Taylor and Phoenix Patterson for Louis Thompson and Saxon Earley on 70 minutes. Further changes saw Olly Sanderson and Jordan Roberts replace Dan Phillips and Jamie Reid as Boro sought a response. Despite Roberts’ late strike in the 90th minute, Oxford held on to claim the three points.
