Oxford United Chairman Grant Ferguson wrote the following notes for the Sky Bet League One Play-Off semi-final programme against Peterborough United:
Welcome all to what is now officially the last home game of the season as we host Peterborough United in the first leg of the 2023/24 Sky Bet League One Play-Off Semi-Final.
We are, of course, here after an incredible day last Saturday that saw us not only beat a very in-form Exeter City side on their home turf, but also other results going our way that meant we finished fifth in the league.
That said, it is important to recognise that we didn’t finish in that position because of results going our way on Saturday. League One is a long, 46 match season, during which every team has ups and downs, and we are where we are today because of the effort put in by the players, coaching staff, support staff and everyone across the club, including the supporters, over the past nine months. It is not yet time to rest on our laurels as there is still work to be done, but I can’t help but reflect on how far we have come since the end of last season.
And whilst talking about supporters, those of you that were able to travel to Exeter last weekend were once again magnificent. The support during the match from start to finish, particularly in the second half when we had our backs to the wall at times, was a huge contributing factor to the events that unfolded. I had the opportunity to meet some of you in and around the stadium, in the city, and on the train to Exeter. I have said it before, and I am happy to repeat it, you are a credit to your club.
The atmosphere and support at the last few home games has also been phenomenal and we will need that and more again tonight. Peterborough are a very good side and that’s why they are here today. It was honours shared in the regular season fixtures and one place separating us in the table, so we should be in for two great games of football over the next week or so. Play-Offs are like the final rounds of a cup competition – generally unpredictable, tense and exciting, so whatever happens it should be a great occasion for us all.
Away from football, Heads of Terms have now been agreed with Oxfordshire County Council for the lease of the “Triangle” site where we are seeking planning permission to build a new stadium. I appreciate that at times progress with the project appears slow, but we are moving in the right direction and if we all continue to work together to support the future of our club, we will get there.
Whatever happens over the next few days and weeks, these will be my last programme notes for this season, so I want to thank you again for your unwavering support. You have turned out in record numbers this season and shown again how much Oxford United means to you and how much you mean to the club. Enjoy the summer and I look forward to seeing you again next season, if not before.
COYY
Grant
You can read the full programme online at www.matchdayfix.com/oufc