Richards wins it at the death as Cobblers stun rivals Oxford

In desperate need of some luck to reverse their floundering fortunes, it seemed Northampton had done enough to earn themselves a hard-fought draw with a resilient, dogged display that had repelled in-form Oxford for large periods.

But a point turned into three deep into added time when Richards improvised brilliantly to backheel Harry Beautyman’s volley into the net, prompting wild scenes of celebration among the delirious away fans.

Given that this was a contest between two teams heading in very different directions, there was a sense of trepidation from many of a Cobblers persuasion going into the festive period but for all Oxford’s huffing and puffing, Northampton’s stubborn defending kept chances to a minimum.

Despite not seeing as much of the ball, the Cobblers created the better chances throughout and finally, after squandering several good openings, they took advantage to clinch a much-needed victory, one which takes them up to 13th.

Full report to follow.