Oxford see off part-timers Hayes

Posted Monday, November 11, 2019 by PA

Goals from Sam Long and Rob Hall ensured Oxford United advanced to round two of the FA Cup with a 2-0 victory over Hayes & Yeading.

The Us spurned a series of first-half chances against the part-timers but the four-division gap eventually proved too much.

The hosts stood firm in the opening 15 minutes but after Matt Taylor had an effort ruled out for offside, the League One outfit created a succession of openings.

Tariqe Fosu cannoned an effort against the underside of the bar with a tremendous dipping strike, and James Henry wastefully blazed over from point-blank range.

Taylor was then denied by a smart Jack Smith block before the breakthrough arrived on 29 minutes.

Anthony Forde’s corner led to Taylor heading against the post, but Long was on hand to nod home the loose ball from close range.

Paul Hughes’ men improved after the break, with Ogo Obi’s fierce strike forcing Simon Eastwood to tip over at his near post.

Oxford boss Karl Robinson then decided to freshen things up, and it had the desired effect as Hall made it 2-0, having only been on for a minute. The substitute latched on to Taylor’s intricate pass and delicately lofted the ball over Smith.

Hassan Jalloh twice forced Eastwood into fine reflex saves as Hayes hunted for the goal their second-half showing arguably deserved.