OXFORD boss Chris Wilder was disappointed by the actions of some Swindon players in Saturday’s derby clash at the Kassam Stadium, accusing them of deliberately trying to get James Constable sent off.
The U’s striker was given his marching orders just 11 minutes into the encounter after elbowing Town defender Joe Devera.
Despite the man disadvantage, two goals in as many minutes from Asa Hall and Oli Johnson secured the points for Oxford.
And while Wilder was delighted with the win, he was disappointed that some Swindon players appeared to try and influence the referee’s decision regarding Constable dismissal.
He said: “He (James Constable) is a physical player. Everyone does their homework on certain players and maybe it is a bit controversial to say, but maybe they have tried to wind him and maybe what they have said is that every time he goes up for a challenge then get around the ref.
“I thought that was a poor effort, having players run 50 or 60 yards to surround the ref. I have seen it before from Swindon and maybe that is how they go about their business.”
Despite his disappointment over that incident, Wilder was keen to stress that he no hard feelings towards Swindon as a whole and backed them to go on and secure promotion.
“I have nothing against Swindon and nothing against Paolo because I think he has done a fantastic job there,” he added.
“They are well backed and I should imagine they will go up this year. They have some good players and they have a really decent way of playing.”
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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 hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel