At what point does four games unbeaten under Manning become four games without a win? The former MK head coach has certainly stabilised United, who look better on the ball, more prepared in transition, and have stopped conceding from every shot they face (although Simon Eastwood's discovery of his inner prime Yashin may play some role in that). The reality is, however, that United went from three points and two places above the drop zone before Manning arrived, to two points and one place since his four draws. This is not to say things have declined under Manning. The nature of the fixtures and league meant things were always likely to get worse before they got better. But whether in desperate hope or genuine belief, fans who thought the removal of Robinson would lead to an immediate escape from the dotted line were mistaken. Oxford are in a serious relegation battle. But if you'd rather skip the hassle of checking the scores each Saturday and desperately hope that United