James Henry admits there was a sense of disappointment in the Oxford camp following the 1-1 draw at Accrington Stanley.

It seemed like Henry’s opener early in the second half would be enough to ensure the U’s returned home with all three points.

But Ethan Hamilton got the hosts back on level terms six minutes from time with a thumping strike from distance.

Henry says they need to be “brave” and put games to bed as they aim to keep climbing the League One table.

“We are disappointed that we didn’t get all three points,” he said. “It is a wonder strike but we have got to get someone out to him quicker and close it down.

“We are disappointed that we didn’t go and try to get a second. It felt like the game went a bit stale and you are always going to invite pressure in the last 10 minutes when it is only 1-0.

“We have got to be brave in those situations and push on, try to get that second and put the game to bed.”

Henry slotted home from close range after some good work by Marcus Browne on the left wing to win back possession and get past his man.

He added: “I just gambled early as soon as the ball was in the air. Browne has got unbelievable pace and he has done really well for the goal.

“He has run right round the outside of the defender, kept it in and put it on a plate for me.

“Especially when I play a little bit further up the pitch, that is what you are there for – to score goals, create goals and put the opposition defence on the back foot.”

Karl Robinson’s men have now drawn their last couple of league matches, and Henry believes there is still room for improvement ahead of next weekend’s clash with fourth-place Barnsley.

“We have got to turn those draws into wins now,” he said. “The last two league games were both there for the taking and we have only managed to come away with two points, so there is still much to improve on.”