THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 1-1 draw with Cheltenham Town in Sky Bet League One.

SIMON EASTWOOD

Decent saves from Freestone and Sercombe either side of half-time. Caught in no-man’s land when May dinked the ball over him in the first half. Not much he could do about the goal – 6

SAM LONG

Lost track of Freestone for the early chance, but otherwise solid enough defensively. Crossing was inconsistent and he gave up possession cheaply on occasion – 5.5

ELLIOTT MOORE

Allowed plenty of time on the ball, but used it less effectively than on Wednesday. Dealt with May and Joseph comfortably enough – 6.5

Read the match report here

JORDAN THORNILEY

Another one who had a lot of possession, making the most passes of anyone (92). Generally tidy, although there were a couple of sloppy clearances in there – 6

STEVE SEDDON

His link with Williams was far less effective than it was against Wimbledon. Strong in the air, but felt like he had more to offer in attack and defence – 5.5

MARCUS MCGUANE

Came closest to giving United a bit of spark in the first half, with a driving run to set up Sykes and playing in Taylor for the penalty. Faded after the break – 6

Read also: Karl Robinson rates Oxford United's performance

HERBIE KANE

An unusually sloppy display from the loanee. Gave the ball away too often and some poor clearances. In his defence, the players around him were not always available – 4

CAMERON BRANNAGAN

Went close in the first half and had a few more goes after the break. Tried to get United moving, but that was not easy on a frustrating afternoon – 6

MARK SYKES

Frustrating first half was summed up by a harsh booking and a poor miss. Quieter than he has been in recent weeks, before scoring the all-important goal. BOOKED – 6

WATCH: Highlights of yesterday's game

MATTY TAYLOR

Should have done better from the penalty spot, before seeing a goal ruled out for offside. Well-marshalled by the Cheltenham centre backs – 5

RYAN WILLIAMS

A few bright moments early on, but quickly faded and we barely saw him in the second half. Disappointing day after two excellent performances – 4

SUBSTITUTES

Gavin Whyte (for McGuane, 61)

Gave United the energy they lacked all afternoon. Difficult to pick up in the central role and another great assist, his fourth in three games. MAN OF THE MATCH – 7

Sam Winnall (for Williams, 69)

One snapshot that went wide, otherwise struggled to get into the game – 4

Unused subs: Stevens, McNally, Mousinho, Davis, Bodin.