Unseen hero anchors City rearguard at Oxford | OneFootball

Rob Atkinson marshalled Bristol City superbly, his dominance in the air and penalty area key as they drew 0-0 at Oxford United.

Early on, Atkinson set the tone, attacking first balls and sweeping up deliveries as Oxford United pushed wide. The hosts slung in 24 crosses, and he repeatedly positioned himself to meet them.

After the restart, he kept City secure, heading clear under pressure and stepping in to halt second phases when Oxford United tried to recycle attacks. The Robins leaned on his timing to relieve territory.

He finished with 13 clearances, seven aerial wins and 10 possession regains, plus 43 accurate passes to move City out. Those numbers underlined how his reading of crosses and high balls neutralised Oxford United's six corners and sustained pressure.

Because Oxford United funnelled attacks from wide areas, his aggressive starting positions and clean leaps prevented cut-backs and knockdowns, ensuring City controlled the key defensive zones.

City are ninth and visit Ipswich Town next. Oxford United sit 23rd and host Queens Park Rangers next.