O'Donkor's brace secures Oxford's first win under Ramsey

Gatlin O'Donkor and Cameron Brannagan scored Oxford United's 2-1 win over Stevenage, giving new head coach Aaron Ramsey his first League One victory.

Gatlin O'Donkor and Cameron Brannagan scored Oxford United's 2-1 victory over Stevenage, giving new head coach Aaron Ramsey his first League One win.

First Goal

The match opened with a tense start for Oxford, who were forced to replace first-choice goalkeeper Jamie Cumming with veteran Simon Eastwood after an injury in the eighth minute. Despite the early disruption, Oxford found the net in the 67th minute when O'Donkor headed a cross from the right into the back of the net, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead.

Second Goal

Oxford doubled their advantage shortly after when O'Donkor was involved again. He forced a penalty from Stevenage defender Peter Kioso, and captain Cameron Brannagan calmly slotted the spot-kick into the bottom corner, extending the lead to 2-0.

Stevenage Response

Stevenage fought back late in the game, with Jordan Roberts scoring a consolation goal in the 80th minute. The goal came after a quick counter-attack that saw Roberts beat Oxford’s defence and finish with a low shot past Simon Eastwood.

Key Moments

Early Goalkeeper Switch - Jamie Cumming was injured in the eighth minute, and Simon Eastwood stepped in.
O'Donkor’s Header - 67th minute header from the right.
Penalty - O'Donkor forced a penalty from Kioso.
Brannagan’s Spot-Kick - 2-0 from the penalty spot.
Roberts’ Late Strike - 80th minute consolation for Stevenage.

The win leaves Oxford unbeaten in their first two league games and marks a positive start to Ramsey’s tenure. Stevenage’s lineup featured Marschall, Piergianni, Freestone, and Phillips, while Oxford fielded Cumming (Eastwood 8), Kioso, Helik, Brown, Currie (Spencer 88), Brannagan, McDonnell, Emakhu, Sibley (O'Donkor 64), Dembele (Mills 64), and Harris (Goodrham 88). Bookings were issued to Freestone; Helik, Brannagan, Harris, and Mills.

Final Thoughts

Oxford United secured a 2-1 win over Stevenage, with O'Donkor and Brannagan providing the decisive goals. The victory gives Aaron Ramsey a strong start as head coach, and the team remains unbeaten in their opening two league fixtures.