Oxford United host Preston North End this weekend as they both look to add to their tally of one win from the first three games.
Oxford United come into the clash with Preston North End off the back of two consecutive defeats in the Championship.
They enjoyed the dream start by beating Norwich City on the opening day but have lost to Coventry City and Blackburn Rovers. The Sky Blues beat them again in the Carabao Cup earlier this week too, emerging 1-0 victors this time.
Des Buckingham’s side sit 12th at this early stage as they look to maintain their place in the Championship.
Preston North End meanwhile will be looking to maintain their perfect start to the Paul Heckingbottom era. They have won two games from two thus far, beating Luton Town in his maiden campaign before thumping Harrogate Town in the cup.
It was a routine win for the Lilywhites over League Two opposition and sent a good statement to the fans, even if a win was expected. Milutin Osmajic scored a hat-trick and summer signing Sam Greenwood bagged a brace.
The mood has improved since Ryan Lowe’s departure but there will perhaps be a hope for some late summer business to back new boss Heckingbottom.
Here, a handful of our writers make their predictions for the game…
James Ray
“Oxford United would have hoped to build on that opening day win over Norwich City but haven’t been able to do so. They’re in for another tough game here too with Preston North End riding the wave of their new management.
“Heckingbottom was the right appointment from what was available and I back him to do well at Deepdale. It’s not an easy time to take a new job, as he’ll have little to do in the transfer market given that Lowe was in charge for much of the summer.
“However, he’s shown in previous jobs he can work well with what he’s got and get a response out of a new group. He’s done just that early on, and that could help them get the better of Buckingham’s Oxford.
“I’ll go for a 2-1 away win in a pretty close affair.”
Prediction: Oxford United 1-2 Preston North End
Harry Mail
“Oxford United have adapted well to life in the Championship so far, despite a couple of recent defeats.
“They are competing which is the main thing and I can see them causing problems to Preston North End here at the Kassam Stadium.
“Des Buckingham’s side are carrying momentum from their promotion from League One.
“As for the visitors, they have the new manager bounce under Paul Heckingbottom and have won their last two in all competitions. I can see them getting a draw against the U’s.”