In the latest column for U’s supporters written by the fans, TREVOR LAMBERT looks at the week’s big talking point

“IT’S a funny old game” – Jimmy Greaves could have been talking about the Checkatrade Trophy.

If a camel is a horse designed by committee, this is a humpbacked animal of a competition, leaving aside the contentious issue of including higher league B teams.

On Tuesday, the Yellows lost against Swindon. Or did they?

At 90 minutes the score was 0-0.

After which, bizarrely, the rules allowed for a penalty shoot-out – not to determine a winner, but to allocate a bonus point.

So, two points to them, one point to us. What’s that all about?

Bookings and dismissals apply only to this competition.

Presumably if the Trophy is scrapped, no penalties will ever be served?

Arcane rules about playing squads saw one club subbing a player after three minutes to meet an allocation.

And at a time when the EFL is debating a ‘whole game’ plan which would reduce leagues in size to alleviate fixture congestion, all Trophy teams play at least three games, adding to early-season fixture demands.

The powers that be will analyse the reasons for the Trophy’s failure to enthuse fans.

Maybe the strange format is as much of a disincentive as the B team issue?

If you have something to say that you think will divert, interest, amuse or stir fellow U’s fans, email us at fanfare@oxvox.org.uk