CHRIS Wilder says the fight for starting places for the nPower League Two opener at Rotherham on August 6 has already started.

The Oxford United boss saw his side begin their pre-season campaign with a 6-0 win at Didcot Town on Saturday.

Goals from new signings Jon-Paul Pittman, who scored twice, Josh Payne, Alfie Potter, Deane Smalley (penalty) and youngster Aaron Woodley gave the U’s victory against Francis Vines’ Southern League side.

It means that United will fly out for their pre-season tour to America today in buoyant mood.

“I really enjoyed it,” said Wilder, who left out Tom Craddock as a precaution due to a slight knee injury.

“It was good physically for us and we got a lot out of it. All the players got 45 minutes each.

“ I thought we passed the ball well and scored some good goals – I thought our attitude was first-class.

“The referee (John Farries) controlled the game well. We wanted it competitive, but with decent passion and that’s what we got.

“I thought they (Didcot) did very well and played their part.”

Wilder was delighted with the contribution of new signings. Michael Duberry, Ryan James, Pittman, and triallist Matt Paterson in the first half, with Smalley, Andrew Whing and Tony Capaldi coming on after the break.

“I thought the two full backs (Whing and Capaldi) were excellent, as were Duberry and James in the first half,” Wilder commented.

“Paterson did OK and Smalley got a penalty.”

Wilder said the player’s performances demonstrated there was healthy competition for places in the side.

He added: “We have 21-22 players who have the opportunity to force their way into my plans.

“It could give me a selection headache if everyone plays well, but that is what I want.

“But it’s not about what happens now, it’s about what happens over the course of the next nine months.

“So we have to make sure that we are fully equipped.”

Didcot boss Francis Vines admitted it was a tough game for his players, but was pleased with the spirit his young side showed.

“It was a good run-out for,” said Vines.

“Oxford are a good side – they got near the play-offs last season and have added to that.

“It would have been easy for the players to give up, but they didn’t.

“Thankfully, we won’t come against sides like Oxford in our league.”