Oxford United v Chesterfield FC Report
Ritchie Humphreys’ first goal for the club sent Chesterfield on their way to a 1-0 victory at the Kassam Stadium.
The visitors' began the game in great fashion, restricting Oxford to their own half. A Drew Talbot cross from wide was met by Tendayi Darikwa, who’s volley was palmed away by Ryan Clarke. Darikwa was the target once again, but Eoin Doyle’s cross failed to reach him.
The U’s first chance of the game fell to Deane Smalley, but his header went wide of the target after a curling cross by Alfie Potter. Gary Roberts led a counter-attack for the away side, although his pass to Jimmy Ryan was poor and Oxford got back to defend.
On 30 minutes, Chesterfield opened the scoring. A low pass by Doyle was met by Humphreys, who’s curled effort went straight past Clarke and into the top corner of the net, handing the visitors a deserved lead.
Smalley had the last chance of the half, but his effort was wide of goal. A comfortable 45 minutes for the Spireites, who went in at the break in front.
After the restart, Jay O’Shea had a great opportunity in front of goal, but his effort was straight at Clarke. Potter tried a shot from range in an attempt to find an equaliser, but his effort was off target.
With just over an hour played, Oxford captain Andy Whing was shown a red card for a mis-timed challenge on Doyle, who would have been through on goal. Moments later, a left-footed shot from O’Shea was saved superbly by Clarke.
Another low shot from Doyle was held by Clarke, as the Spireites searched for a second goal. A rare chance for the home side fell to Smalley, although his header was held comfortably by Tommy Lee, who had little to do throughout.
With five minutes to go, Armand Gnanduillet replaced Eoin Doyle. Seconds later, a Smalley header crashed out off the post for a goal kick to the visitors'.
As four minutes of added time were signalled, Jamie Devitt replaced O’Shea. The last kick of the game came from an Oxford free-kick, but it sailed straight over the crossbar.
A much deserved three points for Chesterfield, who stay four points clear at the top of League Two.
