OXFORD United must not lose heart in the wake of the defeat to Sunderland, says Elliott Moore.
A second-minute header from Jordan Willis proved decisive at the Kassam Stadium, where the hosts came away empty-handed despite an encouraging display.
Read also: Karl Robinson believes Oxford United can still make the play-offs
Particularly in the second half the U’s had Sunderland on the ropes at times, but could not land a knockout blow.
Moore is adamant if they keep playing like that, the wins will come – starting tomorrow against AFC Wimbledon.
He said: “One set piece has done us, but other than that they didn’t really create a lot.
“I think we created a lot more chances and it just didn’t fall for us.”
He added: “The most important thing is the encouraging signs that we’ve put in a performance like that.
“Hopefully we start turning that into points now, because we need that.”
Moore was brought into the side as United started with a back three for the first time this season.
It was deployed as a consequence of the players ruled out through injury and suspension, but from a defensive point of view largely succeeded in limiting Sunderland’s chances.
Moore, who played in a back three during his time in Belgium, said: “It was a massive improvement in our shape and I feel we coped with it well.
“Whether we stick with that or not we’ll see on Tuesday, but I think it worked.”
There were concerns beforehand that Storm Dennis could force the game to be abandoned, but the conditions were not as bad as forecast.
Moore said: “It felt like a normal game once we got into it and settled down. I feel like we played very well and the conditions didn’t really affect that.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here