Oxford United out to end unwanted run against top sides as they host Doncaster Rovers

Oxford United full back Josh Ruffels is targeting a much-needed ‘statement win’ tonight against Doncaster Rovers.
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Though they sit only four points off the final play-off berth in League One, Oxford have failed this season to beat any of the eight sides currently above them in the standings - including Rovers.

Their clash with Andy Butler’s side begins a 25-day run of matches which will see them face six of the sides ahead of them in the table and Ruffels says the quirk of their season must end now.

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“I think you’ve got to beat the top teams, it sends a statement,” he told the Oxford Mail.

Oxford United boss Karl Robinson speaks to his players.Oxford United boss Karl Robinson speaks to his players.
Oxford United boss Karl Robinson speaks to his players.

“To get promoted you’ve got to be consistent against every team that you play.

“There’s plenty of teams above us losing games.

“Apart from Hull, everyone’s been a bit inconsistent, due to the amount of fixtures that we’ve had.

“They’ve got a new manager, so it’ll be interesting to see how they line-up.

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“We know there’s an opportunity and I fancy us at home against anyone.”

Ruffels - who has scored twice against Rovers for Oxford in the past - felt his side were unlucky not to take anything from the reverse fixture last month, with Doncaster running out 3-2 winners.

He said: “They’ve got some good forward players, they’ve been playing really good football.

“We were quite unlucky at their place, so there’s going to be opportunities for us to get some goals.

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“I’ve scored a few against them, so it would be nice to grab a another one.”

Oxford will be without midfielder Anthony Forde tonight due to a family bereavement.

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