Match Reports

Oxford 1-1 Albion

Karlan Grant.

Karlan Grant’s 29th-minute goal was cancelled out in added time as Albion drew 1-1 against Oxford United on Saturday afternoon.

The attacker’s excellent effort looked to be the difference, but a late Dane Scarlett header ensured the hosts took a point from the encounter.

It means Carlos Corberán’s men remain fifth in the Sky Bet Championship table, with 18 points from 10 games.

An image of Albion and Oxford lined up around the centre circle during a period of silence for George Baldock
Both teams paid tribute to former Oxford player George Baldock ahead of kick-off

The boss recalled Uros Racic and Grant to his starting XI following a two-week break without a game.

His side survived an early scare when Alex Palmer was alert to keep out Mark Harris’ finish, as well as Elliott Moore’s tame attempt.

But they controlled proceedings after that - Darnell Furlong flashing a good drive narrowly wide and Torbjorn Heggem heading just over in search of the breakthrough.

And the opening goal did then deservedly arrive shortly before the half-hour mark via in-form man Grant, who unleashed a wonderful low, long-range strike home for his second this season.

An image of Karlan Grant scoring against Oxford

Ciaron Brown nodded a corner off-target as Oxford attempted an immediate response, however in reality it was Albion controlling proceedings and the visitors took a lead into half-time.

United threatened more once the clash restarted, though failed to test Palmer much, with Vaulks firing their best chance a few feet wide.

Albion wanted a second and continued creating opportunities, playing some fantastic, flowing football and going close through Grant’s bravely blocked volley Racic’s comfortably-saved effort.

United threatened more once the clash restarted, though failed to test Palmer much, with Vaulks firing their best chance a few feet past the post.

Albion wanted a second and continued creating opportunities, playing some fantastic, flowing football and going close through Grant’s bravely blocked volley Racic’s comfortably-saved effort.

Grant and Racic both hit further shots wide towards the end, however it was Oxford who would land the final blow of the day - via a long throw.

Scarlett latched onto the throw nodding into the bottom corner to leave the Baggies ruing their missed opportunities in Oxfordshire.

Albion: Palmer; Furlong, Ajayi, Bartley, Heggem; Racic (Molumby 83), Mowatt; Fellows (Wallace 70), Diangana (Swift 70), Grant; Maja (Johnston 83).

Substitutes: Wildsmith, McNair, Styles, Diakite, Dobbin.