THE fate of the Oxford United youth team’s league campaign will be decided this weekend, but coach Chris Allen says the squad can be proud of their season regardless of what happens.

The under 18s missed out on the chance to secure the South West Youth Alliance title on Tuesday, when they drew 0-0 with rivals Bristol Rovers.

It left United on top at the end of their season, but they can be pipped if Rovers beat Exeter City tomorrow.

Allen is hoping the Grecians will do the U’s a favour, but stressed there was plenty of cause for optimism even if Rovers come out on top.

He said: “They’ve done fantastically well since losing the first two games they’ve gone on a ridiculous run and although we drew that one, the be all and end all is the long-term vision.

“Yes we want to win games and trophies along the way, but they have to realise they’ve got to get professional contracts out of it.

“I’ll have a phone strapped to my ear tomorrow though.

“We have a friendly game so I won’t be there, but I will be making a few calls to see if Exeter can do us a favour.”

Several of the squad have had a taste of being part of the first team squad this season.

Last weekend injuries to several players saw winger Callum O’Dowda and Sam Long promoted into the first-team squad.

Neither have made a senior debut so far, but they could again make the 18 tomorrow, bolstering United’s squad for their trip to Dagenham & Redbridge.