There is no disguising the fact that things have not turned out as well as expected at Oxford United.

When Nick Merry and his team took over the club two years ago, there was a distinct air of optimism.

Although the club failed to halt its drift out of the Football League, ending a 44-year run in the top flight, hopes remained high that there would be a quick return.

Early results were encouraging and United were riding high at the top of the Conference table for several months.

But then the rot set in. The team lost its edge and surrendered the chance of promotion in the playoffs.

This season, despite a change of manager in mid-season, the club continues to disappoint, holding a position in the lower half of the league.

Although there is still a mathematical chance of United reaching the playoffs again, it is remote possibility, and most supporters have already written off this season.

The problem for the club is that with dwindling gates, due to the team's lack of success, less money will be available to invest in badly-needed new players.

The truth is that having a top-class ground and a good management structure is of secondary importance in football - it is results on the field that count.

Thankfully, Mr Merry and his colleagues have not lost faith in the club, and are as determined as ever to succeed.

They will always have the backing of the die-hard United fans who will travel the length and breadth of the country to cheer on their team, win or lose.

But the club will also need those casual fans who come to matches only if they see a winning side.

From their present lowly position, there can surely be only one way for United to go - and that is up.

Perhaps next season, it will be third time lucky for a return to the Football League.