The eagerly awaited visit of Oxford United, our FA Cup opponents from 2005, had created a bit of a stir at the Lane. In only three years Oxford have slipped down and we have risen to now be in the same league. Would we be an equal match this time? Well we still don't know, as Jack Frost, the icy geezer, not David Jason's famous detective, paid us a visit and the game was off. Despite winter sunshine one side of the pitch remained solid.

But hey all you football fans, don't despair, as I do have a game to report on! As in the past, the days opponents had a supporters' team, and, ironically, we were due to play the Oxford boys on the front pitch at Priory Lane. Ironic as this pitch, although a tad hard in places, was actually fit to use. With a 10.45am kick-off, the squad from along the M40 arrived, and were shown to the dressing room. Meanwhile, the goals were being wheeled to position. The sight of a crossbar falling down didn't bode too well! To the tune of the BaHa men, we could have sang "Who took the bolts out, who who who who!"

Many hasty repair ideas were submitted, including one very naive one of "taping the bar in place with gaffer tape" Hardly an ideal solution, in the eyes of health and safety! On close examination, and the introduction of a cordless drill, a 17mm socket and two new bolts the match referee deemed the post fit to use. Ok the ref was me, and I was the one who mended the goal! Sorted.

With kick-off now at 11am, the Sports fans won the toss and swapped ends, to avoid the winter sun blinding the keeper. Well I guess that's why.

Both teams were given a pre-match talk from aforesaid referee along the lines of "I am 48, unfit and won't keep up with play, but hey, give me a break, I am doing my best guys!"

It was a pretty even first half and Oxford went ahead with a penalty, correctly awarded. As half-time approached the fourth official (I wish) indicated two minutes of added time. Not for any injury incurred. The game was delayed to obtain a shovel and remove an offensive deposit left but a naughty dog owner. Bet you won't see that on the Premier League highlights!

Boro got back into the game in the second half and to be fair it was probably the best game the fans' team have played in so far. The score went to 3-1 in favour of Oxford before a correctly? awarded penalty and a quick second goal drew it level. There was a very unsavoury incident where one of the home players, having been awarded a free kick on the edge of The U's penalty area decided that head butting the offending defender was a good idea! Rest assured, he will never feature in a red shirt again! With The Sports now down to ten men, it was a great sporting gesture when Oxford skipper said to bring on a sub and keep it 11 versus 11. Now that showed the true spirit of these fans' games.

An odd goal in seven saw the away team take victory by four goals to three, and we must thank them for travelling down to take part. I also think that we must also give acclaim to how far the Boro team has come in its first season. From 17-2 defeats to much closer games recently. I was of course approached by the referee assessor after the game and he informed me that it was the best display from a man in black since Mike Riley (is that good?).

No game this weekend for the first team as Garry and Nick opted to rest the squad during the next FA Trophy weekend! Cup action is due to return to Eastbourne next Tuesday with Crowborough visiting in the Sussex Senior Cup. It should prove an interesting encounter with The Crows proving a force in recent seasons. Will The Crows swoop where The Rooks just nested? Til next week.