MICHAEL Appleton admitted Oxford United rode their luck after a “rubbish” start, but was pleased with another gritty comeback to earn a 1-1 draw at Mansfield Town.

The visitors had chances to win the game following Kemar Roofe’s equaliser from the penalty spot as the Stags lost their discipline in the closing stages.

But United’s unbeaten run, now 13 games in all competitions, could easily have gone in a dreadful opening where they conceded to Craig Westcarr and Matt Green hit the bar from the penalty spot.

Green also went through one-on-one, before the U’s finally found their feet.

“I thought for ten minutes we were rubbish and then we got back into the game,” Appleton said.

“In the first ten minutes we were very lucky, let’s make no bones about it – we should’ve been 2-0 down and possibly 3-0.

“I suppose the character they showed to come back I’ve got to be happy with.”

The game turned on two penalties.

Green was given the chance after keeper Sam Slocombe hesitated and clumsily brought down Mitchell Rose.

An unimpressed boss said: “There’s no point me saying anything because it’s clear to see it’s just diabolical.”

Alex MacDonald, who took over from Danny Hylton as United’s penalty-taker at the start of the season, was substituted before Callum O’Dowda was spectacularly fouled by Reggie Lambe in the box, so Roofe stepped up.

And having scored, the forward will now take over the responsibility on penalties.

Appleton said: “Alex would’ve taken it, but Roofey is full of confidence.

“I think Roofey has got them now. He despatched it very easily.”

Mansfield manager Adam Murray rued his side's inability to cash in on their start, but had few complaints in the end.


The former United midfielder said: "It's a good point for us.


"I felt in the first 20 minutes we could've had two or three and put the game to bed, but then Oxford showed what a good side they are for large periods.


"I think it's a credit to what Michael is building, he's putting a really good team together.


"They are one of my favourites to go up so it will be interesting to see how it pans out."