THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 2-1 defeat at Rotherham United in Sky Bet League One.

JACK STEVENS

Dealt well with the barrage of set-pieces whipped into the six-yard box. Good one-on-one save from Wiles late on and pretty helpless for both goals. Kicking was a little wayward at times. MAN OF THE MATCH – 7

SAM LONG

Brilliant run and cross to create the opening goal, but beaten in the air for the equaliser. Good battle with the lively Osei-Tutu. Passing could have been tidier – 6

LUKE MCNALLY

His misjudgement and then the foul for the winning penalty ultimately cost United. Had a tough task against Smith, although he made some good tackles and interceptions. BOOKED – 5.5

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ELLIOTT MOORE

The diagonal pass sent Long clear for the opener, but he did not get many more chances to use that tactic. Got dragged across when Rotherham hurt United with balls into the channels – 6.5

CIARON BROWN

Long throws gave United another option but never really caused problems. Solid out of possession, although not enough passes found a teammate. Won a few headers in the Rotherham box – 6

HERBIE KANE

Lost the ball in a dangerous area in the build-up to the goal, not for the first time. May have been playing with an injury. A couple of good covering tackles early on – 5

CAMERON BRANNAGAN

Much less influential than normal as Rathbone and Barlaser won the midfield battle. Very few openings high up the pitch, although he was involved in Williams’ chance – 6

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RYAN WILLIAMS

Had to do better with his effort early in the second half. A couple of dangerous bursts on the break at 1-0, but unable to affect the game too much. BOOKED – 6

BILLY BODIN

Some bright moments, including a clever dummy to create the opening for Williams. Some uncharacteristically poor set-pieces – 6.5

MARK SYKES

Started positively before Rotherham nullified this threat, although that may have been due to injury. Grew frustrated when a couple of decisions went against him – 6

MATTY TAYLOR

A tough afternoon. Lacked service and any openings closed very quickly. Held the ball up reasonably well against a strong back three. BOOKED – 6

WATCH: Highlights of yesterday's game

SUBSTITUTES

Marcus McGuane (for Kane, 46)

Unable to change the momentum of the game. Showed his ability in flashes – 5

Marcus Browne (for Williams, 70)

Injected some purpose and gave Rotherham’s defence something to think about – 6.5

Gavin Whyte (for Sykes, 78)

Unused: Eastwood, Forde, Seddon, Holland.

Substitutes who come on after the 75th minute do not get a rating.