Oxford United boss Chris Wilder questioned whether games should take place in gale-force conditions after Oxford United’s 1-1 draw at Barrow on Saturday.

There was only one winner, and that was the wind, which made the contest farcical at times.

To some supporters it seemed like two points dropped as the U’s failed to turn an unbelievable amount of pressure and possession into a win.

But it was still another useful point for the league leaders, whose advantage at the top was cut to six points.

United manager Wilder said: “Conditions were awful and full credit to both sets of players for having a go. It was really difficult for both sides.

“When the conditions are that bad then I’m not sure it should be played.”

Wilder’s men held Barrow level at half-time having played against the 60mph gusts in the opening 45 minutes.

And then, with the wind, they pinned the home team back into their own penalty area for almost the whole of the second half.

“I thought we did really well first half, with Ryan Clarke hardly kicking out of his box, and we had two or three decent passages,” he said.

“We were disappointed to go behind off a deflection, but came back really strongly second half.

“On another day Beano (James Constable) gets a hat-trick, (Jamie) Cook gets two and (Matt) Green gets two, and you go and win comfortably.

“But conditions played a massive part in that result.”

Centre back Luke Foster headed in an equaliser, and Constable was unlucky not to seal victory as he struck a lob against the bar two minutes from time.

“It was a great chip by Beano, but the wind got hold of it,” Wilder added.

“We’re disappointed not to win with the amount of possession and chances – it was like the Alamo second half.

“We deserved to win. The amount of shots, corners and crosses we had were possibly more than we’ve had all season.

“But it’s a nine-month campaign, you win at home and get something away.

“The journeys are long and it’s good to get these two (Gateshead and Barrow) out of the way. But we’re glad to get a home game now on Saturday and it’s one we need to win.”