Oxford United's search for new blood continued in earnest last night with both Darren Patterson and David Oldfield going on to watch games after seeing the reserves draw 0-0 at QPR in the afternoon.

Caretaker manager Patterson says he would like a couple of new faces in by Saturday's visit to Chester to give the squad a lift.

And it will be a squad without Sam Togwell. The 20-year-old defender, who played three games at centre back and one at right back during his month on loan, has returned to Crystal Palace.

"He's gone back and we wish him well," said Oldfield. "He's done a really good job for us."

United's backroom team have watched literally dozens of games since Patterson took over in a bid to strengthen the team.

The U's got a boost too, with Jamie Brooks playing the full 90 minutes for the reserves in the Pontins Combination game at Loftus Road yesterday against a young, but good Rangers side.

Others returning from injury included Rob Wolleaston, who did well in the first half but tired in the second, Dave Woozley, Terry Parker, Lee Molyneaux and Mark Rawle.

United fielded several players who had not played a competitive game for a while, and it showed.

"We certainly got a bit leggy towards the end, but I was fairly pleased with the performance and we were solid in defence," said Oldfield. "Some of the lads definitely needed a game.

"We created two or three good chances but were not quite clinical enough in our finishing."

Brooks and Rawle both had scoring opportunities, which they could not convert.

Brooks made his first League appearance for 2 years when he came on as a 60th-minute substitute against Rochdale last weekend, and a full game for the reserves will have helped his match fitness.

"Jamie's done well and looked very sharp in training lately," Oldfield said.

With Simon Cox still nursing a shoulder injury, Bradie Clarke played in goal.

Oxford Utd Res: Clarke, A Mackay, Molyneaux, Woozley, Parker, Keeble, Wolleaston (Kennett 72), Alexis, Davies, Brooks, Rawle.