THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 2-1 win at Shrewsbury Town in Sky Bet League One.
SIMON EASTWOOD
A very assured performance after two months out of the side. Made a brilliant save from Ebanks-Landell in the first half and commanded his area. Only downside was a few wayward kicks – 7.5
LUKE MCNALLY
Faced a real battle against Udoh and stood up to the challenge, making some crucial tackles. One gorgeous piece of skill in the first half and his run set up Brannagan’s offside goal. Some big headers late on – 7.5
JOHN MOUSINHO
Showed all his experience on his first league start for 15 months. Snuffed out potential chances by seeing attacks before they developed and made several blocks at the near post in the second half. MAN OF THE MATCH – 7.5
STEVE SEDDON
A shaky start but improved after the break. Shrewsbury targeted his side, and you could tell it was an unfamiliar role for the defender, who got caught out of position at times – 6.5
MARK SYKES
The hosts spotted his threat early on and stopped him having much of an impact. Worked hard up and down the right wing, but the end product was a bit off. BOOKED – 6
HERBIE KANE
Beautiful pass to release Whyte in the move that led to United’s opener. Kept his side moving, although Shrewsbury’s midfield were on top after the break – 7
CAMERON BRANNAGAN
Composed and clinical to bury the winning penalty after the home side made him wait. Saw a goal rightly ruled out for offside but did not make much impact other than that – 7
HIGHLIGHTS: Watch the goals here
RYAN WILLIAMS
Another who showed his experience when it counted, getting the wrong side of Bennett to win the penalty. Applied himself well against a lively wing back – 7
NATHAN HOLLAND
Struggled to make an impact but did okay whenever he had the ball, while he got stuck in to a couple of tackles. Appeared to be tiring before he made way for Bodin – 6
MATTY TAYLOR
One chance, one goal – the striker was in the right place as always. Had very little impact for the rest of the game, but worked hard to make life difficult for the Shrewsbury centre backs – 7
GAVIN WHYTE
Great run to meet Kane’s pass for Taylor’s goal. Neat and tidy, making the right decision on the few occasions he had possession – 6
Read also: Karl Robinson thrilled to come through Shrewsbury test
SUBSTITUTES
Billy Bodin (for Holland, 68)
You would not have known he had been out for a month. Some great touches and tried to make things happen in the short time he was on – 7
Marcus McGuane (for Whyte, 77)
Sam Winnall (for Taylor, 87)
Unused: Golding, Smyth, Forde.
Substitutes who come on after the 75th minute do not get a rating.
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