JAMES Henry believes Oxford United’s late point at home to Sky Bet League One leaders Portsmouth will be a step in the right direction for the club.

Henry replaced Marcus McGuane in the 85th minute, and popped up with an equaliser five minutes later, nodding in after Mark Harris’ shot was parried into the air by Pompey goalkeeper Will Norris.

After defeats to Barnsley and Bristol Rovers, the draw and manner in which it came, should act as a boost for United in their hunt for promotion.

On his late equaliser, Henry said: “It was nice, and it would’ve been even nicer if it was for a win, but to get a point is a good step in the right direction, against a top team.

“I just tried to follow it in, and luckily I was there to tap it in. Sometimes all you can do is gamble, and sometimes they fall for you, and sometimes they don’t. Luckily it did.

“I thought the boys were terrific from start to finish, and I thought the work rate was fantastic. The change in formation helped us, and I thought we looked good going forward.

“We can tighten up a few things, maybe defensively, but I think the boys’ work rate was just incredible.”

Tyler Goodrham had given the U’s lead in the first half, when he pulled off what is becoming his trademark, in cutting infield and finding the net.

Henry said: “He’s fantastic at driving inside and shooting. He’s scored so many goals like that. The more he can do it, the better it’s going to be for us.”