Southend United picked up a point after throwing away a two-goal lead at Roots Hall this afternoon.
Former Shrimpers defender David Morley fouled Blues forward Barrington Belgrave in the 18-yard box in the 29th minute and strike partner Tes Bramble tucked the ball away to the left-hand side of the goal to put the hosts 1-0 up.
U's goalkeeper Andy Woodman, who had a loan spell at Roots Hall last season, picked the ball out of the back of the net again after 43 minutes when Southend centre-half Leon Cort headed home Ian Selley's left-wing cross from close range.
But the visitors pulled a goal back three minutes into first half stoppage time when Andrew Scott scored from inside the penalty area from David Savage's pass from the left.
Oxford levelled on 70 minutes after Blues midfielder Scott Forbes handled in the 18-yard box. Paul Powell shot high into the centre of the goal to beat Seasiders keeper Darryl Flahavan.
Forbes and Selley both had chance to grab maximum points in the dying moments of the game, but Blues were forced to settle for a draw which saw them drop a place to 13th in the Division Three standings.
Manager Rob Newman takes his team north on Tuesday night to face Carlisle United, who are 18th after losing 3-1 away to Lincoln City this afternoon.
More on Southend United FC
What are your views on Southend? Have your say on our Views on the Blues bulletin board
Published Saturday, March 2, 2002
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article