The Football Association made a number of changes to the set-up of women’s football a decade ago and since then, only one team from the National League’s Premier Divisions has gone undefeated to make the play-off final – Blackburn Rovers in 2016-17.
Oxford’s players believe their team culture is why they have got this far without tasting defeat.
“We have had our minds set on the league title right from day dot and we made it pretty clear to everyone that was our target,” said defender and vice-captain Riva Casley.
“Everyone is on board with what we want to do and our league record shows that.”
Casley, 25, a former England Under-17 international, is a club veteran brought back last summer to help lead the squad.
“We just need to keep doing what we’re doing and keep being open and honest with each other.
“If there is something wrong we talk about it because there is no sense in getting frustrated, having a go at people and clashing.
“That is what we have built so well here, if someone has a question, no matter the scenario they know they can ask it and it can be talked out and resolved.
“That bond between us has made this dream of a title feel even closer.”
For Oxford, making the play-off final and having the chance to gain promotion to the Championship would represent more than just team success.
It would represent one step closer to dreams of professional football.
“This team can go as far as it wants to,” said Gilbert.
“Thanks to the foundations that we’ve built and the way that we started the league campaign, we’ve put ourselves in a phenomenal position.
“There will be some ups and downs but it’s in our own hands.”