OPPO VIEW: OXFORD

Sunderland go to the Kassam with only momentum to play for, whilst Oxford need to distance themselves from the drop. We spoke to Simon Hathaway of the Fence End Podcast to discuss all things Oxford and how their first Championship season in 25 years has gone.

Currently 19th in the league, three points away from the relegation zone. What's been the story of your season?

The first few weeks of the season we were still riding the wave of optimism after the play-off win, with some good victories and performances at home, but away form was a problem. We then had a poor run starting with the defeat at the SoL, which ended with Des Buckingham being sacked and a more pragmatic manager in Gary Rowett coming in. He started really well and we went nine games unbeaten, then went on a poor run, followed by an inconsistent run, so it's been a rollercoaster! We've been more defensively sound but are pretty toothless up front, and have relied on getting something from Will Vaulks' long throws.

Did you expect to stay up this year?

I think it was hope rather than expectation. We're pretty much where I thought we'd be, fighting a relegation battle.

What are your thoughts on manager Gary Rowett?

In one word, pragmatic. And for our first season in the Championship for a long time, it's probably the right approach.

Mark Harris is your top scorer with six goals, what kind of player is he?

He is hardworking, but hasn't been much of a goal threat recently. Looks devoid of confidence at the moment.

Other than Harris who are some of your standout players?

The answer is Cameron Brannagan. And this has been the answer for about five seasons now. Heartbeat of the team. Tyler Goodrham on his day is capable of magic. Ben Nelson on loan from Leicester is a classy centre back.

Which Sunderland player worries you the most?

Bellingham looked good in the game earlier in the season.

What's your score prediction?

I'd settle for a point, but hoping for three. Our goal will probably come from a scramble in the box after a Vaulks long throw.

Where do you reckon we'll both finish this season?

I think you'll make the play-off final, and then it's who performs on the day - you could do it.

I don't want to jinx our chances at the bottom, but it's going to be tight!

Who do you fancy to win the play-offs? You don't have to say Sunderland if you don't want to!

I do think you'll win your semi-final, then it's a bit of a lottery. Bolton beat us 5-0 just a couple of months before our L1 final last season. Then we totally dominated them at Wembley. It's about the day and who handles the pressure, and gets the tactics right.

Finally, where would you recommend for the travelling Sunderland fans to grab a pre-match pint?

Nowhere near the ground! There are some brilliant pubs in the city centre and along the Cowley Road. Then grab a taxi to the ground.