KARL Robinson praised Oxford United’s desire after they kept out in-form Blackpool.

The clean sheet meant the U’s left Bloomfield Road with a point against a team that had won five of their last six in Sky Bet League One.

Despite Blackpool winger CJ Hamilton twice hitting the woodwork, chances also fell United’s way, including a late header from John Mousinho which keeper Chris Maxwell tipped onto the post.

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The stalemate lifted the visitors out of the relegation zone and their fight pleased Robinson.

He said: “The difference with this team is that they were all willing to put their bodies on the line.

“People think it’s all about the beautiful football in the summer months, but a lot of it is the grit and the determination when the going gets tough.

“I think all of those players showed they were a group of strong people who stood up to the fight.”

The U’s head coach also commended his substitutes after questions had been asked of his squad in recent weeks, singling out Rob Hall’s ten-minute cameo.

“I thought Hally made a difference today, he showed when you play 4-2-3-1 with a 10 he’s as good as it gets in those little tight areas,” he said.

“I think people need to understand sometimes my public support and criticism (of players) is only ever for the benefit of the football club.

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“If I do something that people think is a bit harsh and I get a reaction, then that’s beneficial.

“If I don’t get a reaction, you don’t want to be here.

“It’s never been something I’ve been shy of doing but everyone knows how much I care for them as well.

“Whilst I’m at this football club, the only thing that’s important is our badge.”

Blackpool had a late penalty appeal when Hamilton fell under a challenge from Alex Gorrin, but Robinson felt the incident took place outside the box.

The U’s boss said: “It’s a free-kick or nothing, you actually see he got a touch on the ball.

“You know that because it went out for a goal kick.”