ROSS JENKINS | PRE-DOVER ATHLETIC

Andrew Gate • April 13, 2023

Oxford City Manager Ross Jenkins is hoping for a repeat of the reverse fixture as his side travel to Dover Athletic on Saturday.

Dover have had a difficult first season in the second-tier of non-league but despite sitting eight points clear of the relegation zone, find themselves in a lowly 18th spot.


The reverse fixture was one to remember for Oxford City. A 3-1 win at the RAW Charging Stadium with goals from Joe Iaciofano, Josh Ashby & Zac McEachran set the Hoops on their way for a big three points.


However, as we enter the final three games of the season, another win on the road would be vital to City's top three hopes.


Moreover, Jenkins is hoping for more of the same, on more than one front from his players.


“It’s important we replicate our performance in the reverse fixture at their place." Said Jenkins.


“It’s a long journey but we’ve got to get on with it and we’ll prepare as normal and get ready for a good game of football.


“There’s no fear on their behalf. However, it’s important that we don’t focus on that. They’ll do what they can do and we’ll try and do what we’re best at and what we’ve been doing all season and try and get a result there."


With three games remaining, fans around Vanarama National League South will be doing predictions and asking 'what ifs' as we approach one of the tightest play-off races in recent years.


However, Jenkins and his squad haven't changed their mantra throughout the entire season. Focus on the game ahead of them and nothing more.


“I don’t think we’ve ever looked at a block of games and set a points target. It can be unrealistic so we address things game by game like we have done all season.


“We’ll get through the first 45 minutes, see where we are but we have to address this game on its own, the final two will look after themselves.


“We need to go with the attitude of addressing this game first and leave after putting in a good performance.


“The boys are fully focused and know it’s a long way to go. We travelled a long way to Concord when the weather was bad but made the trip worth it and came back with three points and we’re hoping to do that again."


Easter Monday's victory over Chelmsford turned the Easter weekend around for City and Jenkins says that the feel-good factor is back amongst his squad.


“Friday was disappointing in terms of our performance, but we had a great reaction on Monday.


“It’s a positive reaction and the feel-good factor is back after being a little flat after that Friday. We’re looking forward to Saturday and hopefully putting a proper performance on.”

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