In a thrilling contest, played in glorious sunshine to a sell-out crowd, the Swans were good value for a point. Sheehan’s side though will be wondering after taking the lead on three occasions, how they were unable to gain the three points.
A sumptuous first-half effort from Ji-Sung Eom had given the Swans the lead before poor defending saw the visitors equalise just on the break though Greg Leigh’s close-range volley.
With Welsh wizard Allen pulling the strings in midfield it wouldn’t be long before the Swans retook the lead with Ronald firing home from Josh Tymon’s inch-perfect cross.
More defensive woe on a set-piece saw U’s centre back Michal Helik bundle home from inside the six-yard box to level once again.
It would not dampen the spirits of the Swans fans who minutes later saw captain for the day Allen leave the field for the final time to a rousing reception, replaced by fellow retiree Kyle Naughton, also bowing out after 300 appearances for the Swans.
Liam Cullen thought he had won the match late for the Swans with a late header, but a stoppage-time equaliser from former Swan Przemyslaw Placeta shared the spoils.
Despite not gaining the win, Sheehan felt the occasion was a fitting farewell for two of Swansea’s most decorated players in recent times.
“We’ve had two legends of the game leaving the football club and it was a real party atmosphere,” said Sheehan post-match.
“Them two guys deserve everything they get. They are incredible people, players and incredible for the culture.
“They are ultimate professionals – the sendoff they got from the families and the fans was incredibly justified.
“I really enjoyed a lot of our attacking play today. It was wonderful and we scored three really good goals.
“I didn’t like us defensively. It was out of character for us to concede two set-pieces and we gift them another goal in the 94th minute – that’s disappointing.”
Oxford manager Gary Rowett was delighted with the spirit shown on the day and feels it sums up the progress his side has made since his arrival in December.
“It shows what our team is all about [to come back from a goal down three times].
“We have shown an incredible spirit and never been out of games even if we’ve lost them. That’s a good quality to have and I thought today was no different.
“Swansea will be disappointed, but I thought it was a nice fitting tribute to the form the team has shown.”
[Lead image: Swansea City FC]
