Peter Rhoades-Brown described last night's testimonial game against a Chelsea XI at the Kassam Stadium as "one of the most emotional nights of my life," writes NICK FARRANT.

"I was expecting a crowd of 3,500 and more than 5,000 have come along, which is brilliant," said Rhoades-Brown, who scored Oxford's second goal from the spot in their 4-2 defeat.

"It's been incredible. It was one of the most emotional nights of my life.

"I would like to thank each and every one of you for coming along. And also a big thank you to Chelsea."

Former Oxford defender Gary Briggs said: "I thought we were playing a veterans' side!

"Rosie's a good lad. I was just pleased to be able to turn up for him."

Ex-U's striker Jeremy Charles added: "Rosie's a good lad. I will be watching the play-offs and hopefully there'll be a trip to Wembley at the end of it."

Former United winger Chris Allen, who now plays for Hellenic League side North Leigh, added: "When Rosie was putting this match together he rang me I had no hesitation in agreeing to play. It was great meeting up with all the lads again.

"I think Oxford have got every chance of getting through the play-offs, particularly with the calibre of players they have got."

Our picture shows the Oxford United XI lining up before the big match. Left to right : Malcolm Shotton, Gary Briggs, Jim Magilton, George Lawrence, Steve McClaren, Jeremy Charles, John Durnin, Chris Allen, Phil Whitehead, Ray Houghton, Joey Beauchamp, Micky Lewis, Les Taylor.