ELLA Franklin-Fraiture’s second-half strike proved in vain as Oxford United went down to a narrow 2-1 defeat away to Durham in FA Women’s Super League 2.

The hosts dominated the early exchanges and took a deserved lead after 20 minutes from the penalty spot.

Jordan Atkinson went down in the area under a challenge from United’s Jess Frampton, with Beth Hepple sending goalkeeper Demi Lambourne the wrong way from 12 yards.

There was little Lambourne could do about the home side’s second 11 minutes before the break.

The keeper did well to parry Sarah McFadden’s shot out, but the ball fell to the lurking Atkinson, who made no mistake on the rebound.

But the U’s rallied and were only denied a goal back before half-time by the woodwork.

Ini Umotong seized on a loose ball and played in Ellie Noble, whose strike came back off the base of a post.

Oxford did get themselves back into the game shortly after the hour mark.

Franklin-Fraiture prodded home from close range following a goalmouth scramble.

But despite their pressure in the closing stages, United were unable to force an equaliser.

They will look to get back to winning ways when they make the trip to Everton in their next fixture on Sunday, September 11.

Oxford Utd: Lambourne, Frampton, Haynes, Casley, Lane (Deeley 17), Umotong, Allison, Franklin-Fraiture (Nutman 65), Rafferty, Lee, Noble (Pickett 55). Subs not used: Cox, Weston.

Attendance: 297.