OXFORD fans were left bitterly disappointed as the Yellows lost the play-off final clash 2-1 to Wycombe.

With supporters unable to attend the game at Wembley, they turned out at pubs across the county to urge United on.

At Kidlington Football Club, a healthy number of fans watched on a big screen and experienced the highs and lows that these occasions offer.

Supporters followed social distancing, aside from some chaotic scenes when Oxford equalised.

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As the game entered its final moments, fans cheered on United as if they were with the players at Wembley, followed by long periods of tense silence as fans watched the looming defeat in the face.

The screams and cheers got more desperate and louder as time ticked away, before the referee brought the game to a heartbreaking end.

Former United player Joey Beauchamp watched the game and despite the loss, saw lots of positive signs.

The former midfielder said: “It’s still been a successful season, it’s just a couple of mistakes that have cost them.

“It would’ve been nice to get back in the second tier but from what I’ve seen from them, they’ve done really well.

“They’ve been very unlucky today and to get that close is obviously disappointing.”

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Barry Hiles, director of football at Kidlington FC, added: “It’s disappointing obviously, but it was really good to see people here in good numbers supporting the team locally.”

After a frustrating first half which saw Oxford concede early, fans remained optimistic of the team’s chances with supporters happy the team was playing well but needed to be a little more direct.

The second half was a different story for U’s fans as Oxford stepped it up a gear.

The goal sparked life into the crowd and although safe social distancing was in place, there were a few wild scenes when Oxford brought the tie level with fans jumping out their seats and cheers and hugs shared between an ever more enthusiastic crowd.

Ultimately, fans were left devastated by a late penalty to Wycombe.

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Prior to the game, fans were quietly optimistic of Oxford’s chances, as they talked about what promotion would mean.

Adam Wareham said: “Promotion would be massive, the away days and the step up in quality.

“For the football club, it’s been a long time coming and it would be such a boost.

“I’ve got a cardboard cut out at Wembley so I’ll be there. I watched the semis and they provided a different type of buzz, and whatever happens we’ve had a good season.”

Meanwhile, for some fans the occasion proved too enticing as they left the house for the first time since lockdown was announced on March 23.

Gary Johnson said: “It’s a massive shame we can’t all be there tonight, but people have come out for the occasion, my father’s here and out for the first time in 14 weeks.”