OXFORD United need only look back ten months for their last play-off campaign.

Covid meant the 2019/20 semi-finals and final were not played until July, with the U's facing Portsmouth after the Sky Bet League One table was decided on unweighted points per game.

Oxford Mail sports reporter James Roberts goes through the two games, looking at what could be different against Blackpool this time around.

The teams had not played for almost four months when they walked out at Fratton Park for the first leg - and it was a very different environment to what they were used to.

Read also: Mide Shodipo out to continue goalscoring form in front of Oxford United fans

Karl Robinson had some tough decisions when it came to his starting line-up with rustiness a factor, compared to the fatigue that could play a part next week.

Herald Series:

Marcus Browne cancelled out Ronan Curtis's opener to ensure the teams went into the second leg level, although Pompey felt they should have had at least one penalty.

Fans may well have made a difference in those incidents - something we could see this week, especially with only home supporters allowed in.

Herald Series:

Alex Gorrin congratulates Marcus Browne on his equaliser at Portsmouth Picture: David Fleming

Like the first leg, Pompey took the lead in the second game, this time through Marcus Harness.

Herald Series:

United levelled through Ellis Harrison's own goal - given by goal-line technology, which will again be in operation this season - and the teams could not be separated until the penalty shoot-out.

Simon Eastwood saved from Cameron McGeehan and Cameron Brannagan scored the decisive spot-kick to send the U's to Wembley.

Herald Series:

Oxford United celebrate after Cameron Brannagan's penalty won the shoot-out against Portsmouth Picture: David Fleming

This season's semi-final against Blackpool promises to be just as tight, but United will hope last year stands them in good stead.