A LOT can happen in the final seven games of the season.

This time last year, Oxford United were 12th in Sky Bet League One, six points outside the play-offs and their promotion hopes were fading fast.

We know what happened next: 18 points from their last seven matches saw the U’s snatch sixth place on the final day, although they ultimately remained in the third tier.

It was a thrilling charge to the play-offs, but the absence of fans in the stands left a hollow feeling.

READ MORE: "I wouldn't want it any other way" - Karl Robinson relishing tough run-in

This is the time of the season that encapsulates what it means to support a football team: the nerves are heightened, the agony extended and the wins feel that little bit sweeter.

That is especially true on days like tomorrow, when United face promotion rivals Plymouth Argyle in front of a full house.

It is exactly the right backdrop for these end-of-season games, rather than the empty seats of 12 months ago.

There are plenty more big occasions to come, too, with the home matches against Sunderland, MK Dons and Doncaster Rovers likely to attract big crowds.

The U’s created some fantastic memories almost on a weekly basis this time last year, starting from the 6-0 thrashing of Crewe Alexandra and ending with the final-day victory over Burton Albion that sealed a play-off spot.

There were some magic moments, but fans were forced to watch from their own homes.

If United repeat the trick and reach the play-offs again, it will feel even more special.