Oxford United beat Stevenage 2-1 to secure first League One win

Oxford United won 2-1 against Stevenage, earning their first League One points of the season. Gatlin O'Donkor opened the scoring, Cameron Brannagan added a penalty, and Stevenage scored late in added time. The win marks Aaron Ramsey’s first victory as United boss.

Match Overview

Oxford United secured their first League One victory with a 2-1 win over Stevenage. The match, played at Oxford’s home ground, saw the U’s take the lead in the second half and hold on despite a late Stevenage goal in added time.

Key Moments

First Goal: In the second half, Gatlin O'Donkor found the net after a pass from 22-year-old Stan Mills, who had just returned to the squad following his agreement to join Preston North End in January. Mills came off the bench and provided the assist for the opener.
Second Goal: Cameron Brannagan converted a penalty to double Oxford’s advantage. The penalty was awarded after a defensive play in the Stevenage box.
Stevenage Response: Stevenage scored late in added time, but the U’s defensive work, described by manager Aaron Ramsey as “superb,” kept the visitors from turning the game around.

Player Highlights

Stan Mills: Mills’ first appearance since his transfer agreement with Preston North End saw him deliver a decisive assist. Ramsey praised his quality and the positive reception from the fans.
Aaron Ramsey: The new United boss celebrated his first victory in charge, noting the team’s resilience in the first half and their control in the second.

Upcoming Fixture

Oxford United will travel to Huddersfield on Tuesday, 1 September for their next League One match.

Final Thoughts

The win gives Oxford United a confidence-boosting start to the season, while Stevenage will look to regroup after conceding a second-half lead and a late setback.