THE VERDICT: Appleton pleased with first Trophy win

Reaction as United beat the Grecians

Oxford United kicked off their Checkatrade Trophy campaign with an exciting  4-2 win over Exeter City last night. In a see-saw game  it was United who started the group stages with a victory.

“The approach was exactly the same as any game we play” Michael Appleton told Yellow Player HD. “There were always going to be changes to the side because you have players who deserve the opportunity to play. For me it was just about staying professional and I thought we did that.

“We got really sloppy once we got two goals ahead so I’m a little bit annoyed about that but obviously then we reacted really well and scored two good goals and could have scored another six really. 

“I was delighted with the response when we got pegged back to 2-2. I was pleased that the players got annoyed and angry with themselves to have allowed Exeter back in through some silly errors. But that’s a little reminder that the game is never over. Even at 2-0, 3-0 or whatever, stick to doing the things that got you into that position in the first place: there’s a reason you are winning the game so stick to it.

“But it was a good win and they are feeling a lot better about themselves in the dressing room now than they were on Saturday.”

See the full interview plus the thoughts of Tyler Roberts and extended highlights in Yellow Player HD.

United now move on to face Rochdale on Saturday in League 1. It’s Retro Day so grab an old Oxford shirt, flag or scarf and come along to join the fun.

Tickets are available from www.oufctickets.co.uk and 01865 337533