The 2006-07 campaign delivered a season of dramatic resurgence and ultimate heartbreak for Oxford United as The Us, newly relegated and the first former major trophy winner at this level, secured a superb 2nd-place finish in the Conference National. The season was defined by a remarkable second-half transformation under manager Jim Smith, which included a 17-match unbeaten run that saw the club surge up the table, consistently playing in front of the league's largest crowds. Leading the charge was the prolific forward Robert Duffy, whose 18 goals proved vital in their push. However, their dream of an immediate return to the Football League ended in an agonizing play-off semi-final defeat on penalties to rivals Exeter City, marking a painful, unforgettable chapter in the club's modern history.