THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 2-1 win at Cheltenham Town in Sky Bet League One.
SIMON EASTWOOD
Made a good one-on-one save from May early on. Swept up well behind the defence on a few occasions, but could he have got more on his punch for Cheltenham’s equaliser? – 7
SAM LONG
Dug in defensively, winning several headers and making some good tackles. Exposed a couple of times and needed his teammates to help him out – 6.5
STUART FINDLAY
Generally tidy and brought the ball out from the back more than we have seen in previous games. Rock solid in the final few minutes to help United hold on – 7
CIARON BROWN
Another impressive display from United’s Mr Consistent. A couple of great blocks in the first half and rarely beaten in the air. Positive on the ball, too – 7.5
JAMES GOLDING
It was a tough ask for the 18-year-old to start a League One game in an unfamiliar position. Did not do anything wrong, but did not have much of an impact during his time on the pitch – 6
MARCUS MCGUANE
Quickly becoming one of United’s most important players and he picked up where he left off on his return. Brought the ball out well to launch attacks, rarely gave it away and a couple of great covering challenges – 7
WATCH: Highlights of yesterday's game
CAMERON BRANNAGAN
The free-kick showcased his ability, the penalty was all about mentality. United’s talisman stepped up again to get his team over the line – and his general performance was good, too. BOOKED, MAN OF THE MATCH – 8
STEVE SEDDON
Unlucky to see an early chance cleared off the line. Positioning was sometimes found wanting but he battled away up and down the left – 6.5
JAMES HENRY
It did not quite fall for him in the first half, whether due to deflections, mix-ups or offside calls. Created a good chance for himself after the break. Set-pieces were fine – 6.5
BILLY BODIN
Created a couple of chances for teammates before the break and missed a good opportunity in the second half. It was all overshadowed by the red card, though – with his experience he should have known not to put himself in that position. BOOKED, SENT OFF – 5.5
KYLE JOSEPH
Good energy again, but another player who was unable to have too much impact with the ball. Only sight of goal was a half-chance late on. BOOKED – 6
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SUBSTITUTES
Matty Taylor (for Golding, 46)
Won the free-kick and the penalty – does that count as two assists?! Made a nuisance of himself. BOOKED – 7
Alex Gorrin (for Henry, 79)
John Mousinho (for Seddon, 82)
Gatlin O’Donkor (for Joseph, 90+2)
Unused: McGinty, Bate, Goodrham.
Substitutes who come on after the 75th minute do not get a rating.