Oxford United boss Ian Atkins admits it was a massive relief to get his first away win since taking charge, but is urging his side not to undo their good work on Saturday.

Tuesday's 1-0 victory at Macclesfield was the first victory in eight matches on their travels for Atkins's side, but the trip to Southend on Saturday now takes on even more importance as United bid to get to grips with their inconsistency.

They have only enjoyed back-to-back victories once this season against Halifax and Rushden, and the last time they won successive away trips was on their terrific run that saw them get promoted way back in 1996.

"In the games we've played away since I've been here, we've deserved a lot more than we've got," Atkins said.

"But it was a relief to get the win.

"I would say we were very effective in the first half, and the second half was a top-seven third division performance.

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