THE use of fake crowd noise will have an impact on Oxford United at the Kassam Stadium, says Josh Ruffels.

Recordings of fans were played over the PA system for the first time on Tuesday night, in a bid to improve the atmosphere of fixtures played behind closed doors.

United went on to win 3-1 against Rochdale, just the boost they desperately needed after slipping to the bottom of Sky Bet League One.

It was the start of four home games in five matches, which continue against Peterborough United in the Emirates FA Cup this afternoon.

While pre-coronavirus the thought of pumping in artificial noise would have been scoffed at, it is now welcomed.

Ruffels said: “It was nice to have the crowd noise, even though it’s fake.

“I thought it was better and it makes it feel a bit more real to the boys.

“It’s so much better playing at home and keeping a good record is massive. We’re looking to build on that.”

Peterborough boss Darren Ferguson admitted a trip to United in the first round was not the ideal draw.

The feeling is mutual for the hosts, against a side they lost 2-0 against in League One last month.

While it may not feel much like a cup tie, having worked so hard to generate some momentum in midweek, Ruffels knows it must not be squandered.

He said: “Winning games is a good habit to be in, whatever the competition.

“We will look at these games as positive things and just keep going really.

“Hopefully we’ve turned a corner now.

“We’ve had some tough games, so hopefully with a few more at home now we can get some wins.

“It’s one for us to try to get one back on Peterborough and kick on.”

With U’s boss Karl Robinson planning to shuffle his side today and for Tuesday’s game at Walsall in the Papa John’s Trophy, Ruffels is likely to be among the regulars given a breather in at least one of the fixtures.

Teenager Michael Elechi, who made his senior debut in September, would be in line to deputise.

Ruffels has had the left back slot to himself for some time, but welcomed the challenge.

“Michael’s a powerful lad, so I think he’s got a bright future,” he said.

“I enjoy the competition and I think it’s healthy as well.

“He’s got a lot of good attributes and I’m looking forward to seeing him play.”