JAMES Henry was thrilled to give Oxford United’s fans a goal to celebrate on the day they returned to the Kassam Stadium.

The crowd of 1,000 made plenty of noise at their first U’s home game since February – especially when the midfielder fired his side ahead against Hull City after ten minutes.

United produced an energetic display against the Sky Bet League One leaders, but Greg Docherty’s second-half equaliser ensured the points were shared.

The draw saw the U’s slip into the relegation zone, but Henry felt the supporters played their part in an engrossing contest.

He said: “It’s the little things, like when you go for a press and get a clap, it gives you that extra little bit of energy to go again.

“It plays a massive part and that was only with 1,000.

“There was a good noise when that goal went in.

Gallery: Pictures from Oxford United's draw with Hull City

“When we were playing in front of no fans we realised how big a miss they are.

“Ultimately we’re entertainers, that’s why we get into football.

“To have them back, even in small numbers, is amazing.”

United were the better side in the first half, but had to be resilient when Hull gained control after the restart.

Karl Robinson: Oxford United went toe-to-toe with Hull City

U’s head coach Karl Robinson insisted it was two points dropped, but felt players like Henry would flourish with fans back in the stadium.

He said: “Once he’s scored a goal he thinks he’s got a thunder shot from 80 yards.

“I think he got a bit carried away with himself with the fans after he scored the goal.

“He’s a showman – that’s what our industry is, it’s an entertainment industry.

“There are certain players who thrive on it.”

Robinson added: “It felt like the beginning of the season.

“There’s so many people who we’ve missed on a weekly basis.

“The industry’s pointless without people who come and support us.”