HANDLING the nerves and staying focused will be key if Oxford United are to follow in the footsteps of their 1996 side and claim automatic promotion on the final day of the season.

That’s the view of David Rush, who memorably raised his shirt on a corner flag at the Manor after scoring the final goal in their 4-0 win over Peterborough 20 seasons ago.

The equation for Denis Smith’s team in Division 2 on May 4, 1996 was near-identical to the one facing Michael Appleton’s side against Wycombe Wanderers this weekend – win and promotion is sealed.

Back then, United went into the final game a point ahead of Blackpool, while Notts County also had a chance of finishing as runners-up.

Although it became straightforward in the end, tension was mounting when United failed to break through in the first half, while Blackpool led against York City.

“It was probably one of the most nervous games I have had, especially at half-time when we were 0-0,” Rush said.

“For the first 30 minutes in the game, I think it showed.

“There was a chance I had in the first half which normally I’d have stuck away but I ended up shooting over the bar.

“It was harder to miss, but it was just pure nerves. You’re not yourself.

“Mick Moore the groundsman was standing in the tunnel and you just had to look at his face to know what was happening with Blackpool.

“You just have to keep focused as best you can and see it through to the final whistle.

“It’s the same scenario this time.”

United will be hoping history repeats itself by getting a helping hand from the visitors on Saturday.

Peterborough striker Giuliano Grazioli’s own goal shortly after half-time opened the floodgates, with Paul Moody, Matt Elliott and Rush on target.

The ex-Sunderland striker envies United’s class of 2016 for the chance to play in such a big occasion and backs them to finish the job – if they can avoid getting dragged into a battle by Wycombe.

He said: “If you can’t get up for a game like this there’s something wrong with you.

“Wycombe will do everything in their power to spoil the party.

“You have to rise above it, keep off the referee’s back and don’t get involved and keep your eye on the bigger picture.”

“The players and staff have done great and I think they deserve it.

“That would cap a really good season, but you have to finish the job.”