Oxford’s interim boss Craig Short was content to see his side see off League Two MK Dons on penalties in the FA Cup Third Round.
On the day the Us confirmed Matt Bloomfield as their new Head Coach, Oxford fell behind when MK Dons’ Aaron Collins bundled home from a 34th-minute corner.
Will Lankshear equalised in the 52nd minute when MK Dons could not clear a long throw an, after both sides missed opportunities, the game went to penalties.
MK Dons’ Jonathan Leko missed the target and Matt Ingram saved Connor Lemonheigh-Evans’ kick to win the tie for Oxford, who reach round four for the first time since the 2019/20 season.
Short said he was pleased to see his side get victory in the last game of his spell in charge.
He said: “The lads stuck at it as they have been for the last three weeks with me, they’ve been really good and having a real go. At times, we’ve been disappointed but today was just about getting through.
“I know MK are in League Two but they’re a good side with good players who’ve played at a higher level. So I was pleased.
“I’ve just met Matt for the first time. He came into the dressing room at the end and spoke to the lads.
“It’s nice for me – we’re expected to win this game but you can easily lose it. I’ve enjoyed a lot of it, found a lot of it hard and nerve-racking, but I’ve had really excellent support.”
Paul Warne praised the efforts of his MK Dons players despite losing.
He said: “I thought we had the better edge on chances and thought that although we had to defend a lot of crosses, we did. Unfortunately, we got done with a long throw and they scored.
“I thought there wasn’t much in it. That’s probably the best compliment I can give my players because at times, you wouldn’t know which team was which.
“I’m pleased for the lads but then I’m heartbroken for the lads. I just didn’t think they deserved to lose. It was bittersweet.
“I felt for them but was proud for them in equal measure. The performance was there. The game next week at Accrington will look different but if you keep that desire, you can hopefully go on a good run and up the table.”
