A crucial 2-0 win over Watford has bolstered Oxford's chances of avoiding relegation in the Championship. Myles Peart-Harris scored the opening goal in the 19th minute, capitalizing on a free-kick from Cameron Brannagan that the Hornets failed to clear. Substitute Mark Harris sealed the victory with a low shot past goalkeeper Egil Selvik in stoppage time, securing Oxford's first win in five games.
Despite this win, Oxford remains in 22nd place with four games left to play, following Portsmouth's late win at Middlesbrough. Watford, with a poor away record this season, had been winless in three games prior to this match but had previously beaten Oxford 2-1 at Vicarage Road in October.
The game saw both teams create scoring opportunities, with Watford's Jeremy Petris showcasing his skill in the 17th minute, only to be defended well by Oxford. Brannagan's precise free-kick delivery led to Peart-Harris scoring the first goal. The Hornets responded with sustained pressure, including a header from Luca Kjerrumgaard that was caught by keeper Jamie Cumming. As the game progressed, both teams had their chances, with Nestory Irankunda's 22-yard effort being tipped over by Cumming in the second half.
Oxford consistently threatened from set pieces, with Brannagan and Jamie Donley delivering pinpoint free kicks. The tension among home fans increased as Watford pressed for an equalizer, but Harris's goal in stoppage time secured the win for Oxford. Manager Matt Bloomfield expressed satisfaction with the result and the team's performance, especially in the second half, but acknowledged that there is still much work to be done to avoid relegation.
Watford's manager lamented the team's inability to match Oxford's aggression and adapt to the intense nature of the game, leading to their defeat.