Derby Men’s 4th XI 5-6 Oxford Brooks Men’s 2nd XI: Home side edged out in 11-goal thriller
Words by Jack Beighton.
Derby Men’s 4th XI fell to a 6-5 defeat against Oxford Brooks Men’s 2nd XI after a dramatic second-half comeback from the visitors.
Despite being 5-3 up in the second half, the hosts were unable to contain their lively attacking counterparts and conceded three late goals on a disappointing afternoon at Kedleston Road.
It was Derby who struck first through their player-manager Ross Barnett who curled a fantastic effort from range beyond the goalkeeper and into the back of the net.
Moments later, Oxford Brooks turned the game on its head with Jude Eggilshaw capitalising on two defensive errors, finding the top left corner on both occasions.
The home side thought they had found an equaliser midway through the half when Sam Rendle nodded in from a Jake Askew cross, but it was ruled out for offside. Although, that did not stop them from forcing the issue as Ross Forbes bagged the equaliser minutes later with a composed finish.
It was Derby who then took the lead directly from Oxford’s kick-off before doubling their lead. Rob Ilsley fired a free-kick into the bottom corner after Mitch Tomkin had converted from Forbes’ low cross.
The visitors got a goal back just before half-time as Toby Shuitay’s low driven shot deflected off a defender and found its way past Staines.
Even though Barnett put his side 5-3 up after the interval, Oxford Brooks ran wild late on as goals from Shuitay, Ollie Miracco and Mo Dah condemned Derby to one of their more frustrating defeats.
The loss leaves Ross Barnett and his team mates in a tough position and after the game, he confirmed that the team are in danger of relegation this season.
