Video: Dane Scarlett scores stoppage-time goal to rescue Oxford’s unbeaten run
In a thrilling finish at Kassam Stadium, Tottenham loanee Dane Scarlett rose highest in stoppage time to nod home a dramatic equaliser for Oxford United. The goal earned his side a 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion and keeping their unbeaten home record intact this season.
Dane Scarlett’s journey so far
Dane Scarlett has been quietly navigating his way through a loan spell at Oxford United this season, a stint that has seen him battle for game time and momentum, much like his previous loan spells.
Despite showing flashes of brilliance at international level, where he netted for England’s Under-21s, his opportunities at club level have been limited.
This season started with a familiar script for Scarlett, who was on the periphery for much of Oxford’s early fixtures, often coming on in the dying minutes of games, just as he did at Ipswich last year.
For a player of his potential, it has been a testing period, one where patience has been paramount, but a single goal can often be the spark needed to shift fortunes, and Scarlett had been biding his time.
Scarlett saves Oxford in injury time
The story at the Kassam Stadium unfolded slowly, with West Brom looking the more dominant side in the first half. A 25-yard strike from Karlan Ahearne-Grant in the 29th minute had given the visitors the lead, a goal that was well deserved as they controlled much of the possession and tempo.
Oxford struggled to find a foothold in the game, their attempts to build meaningful attacks were repeatedly thwarted by a resolute West Brom midfield. Mark Harris had an early chance saved, but Oxford’s response was otherwise lacklustre in the first 45 minutes.
However, the second half saw a shift in momentum. Oxford, buoyed by the return of key players, began to apply more pressure, with Siriki Dembele causing problems down the left flank. As the clock ticked down, the home side looked for an equaliser, pushing more men forward, but still, the elusive goal didn’t come.
It wasn’t until the third minute of stoppage time that the breakthrough arrived. A long throw from Will Vaulks found Elliott Moore, who flicked it on perfectly for Scarlett, and from just seven yards out, he headed the ball into the net to send the Oxford faithful into raptures.
Watch the goal here:
A crucial season for Scarlett’s development
Scarlett’s dramatic equaliser not only preserved Oxford’s unbeaten home record but also showcased his resilience and ability to make an impact when it matters. This goal might be seen as a turning point for the young striker, who is looking to cement his place in the team.
However, the reality remains that Scarlett’s minutes on the pitch have been limited, and with competition in the forward positions, he will need to build on this moment to gain more consistent game time. His recent performances for England’s youth teams certainly demonstrate his potential, but translating that form into the Championship is a different challenge altogether.
At Tottenham, Scarlett is competing with the likes of Will Lankshear, who appears to be ahead of him in the pecking order, and it remains to be seen where he fits into the long-term plans at the club.
For now, though, his focus will be on Oxford and making the most of this loan spell, which could well shape his future at the North London club.
As this season progresses, Scarlett’s ability to grab vital goals could prove invaluable for Oxford United, and if he continues to work hard and capitalise on his chances, he may yet turn this campaign into a successful one for himself.
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