Oxford United player ratings from hard-fought Stevenage win

Aaron Ramsey made three changes to his starting XI from the opening day draw with MK Dons, aiming to combat the physical threat of Boro.

United fought hard to score twice in the second half, Gatlin O’Donkor and Cameron Brannagan both netting to see Oxford to victory.

Here is how we rated the U’s at Stevenage…

Jamie Cumming (Eastwood 8′) – N/A

Withdrawn early through injury.

Peter Kioso – 7.5

Matched the physicality of Boro and won some important tackles whilst proving a decent option for Aidomo Emakhu to play to at times.

Terrific all game.

Michal Helik – 6

Was needed in this type of game and seemed more comfortable than his defensive partner.

Ciaron Brown – 6

Strong on the ball but found Josh Magennis a handful, forcing him to play some questionable balls backwards in the first half.

Better in the second period.

Jack Currie (Spencer 88′) – 6

Nothing too special this week but got forward well a couple of times across the 90 minutes.

Jack Currie carries the ball for Oxford United (Image: Oxford United)

Cameron Brannagan – 8

Played the pivot role well and led by example. Struck a wicked free kick in the second half and tucked the penalty away power.

Jamie McDonnell – 7

Worked hard off the ball, winning headers all afternoon. Brilliant off the ball and grew into the game when on it.

Aidomo Emakhu – 6.5

Like last week, much better in the second period and was a real nuisance for Lewis Freestone.

Louie Sibley (O’Donkor 64′) – 6.5

Involved himself well in things at both ends of the pitch with some good runs forward, a testing shot and an impressive goal-line clearance.

A bit lightweight on the ball and should have hit the target in the second half, but one of his better Yellows appearances.

Siriki Dembele (Mills 64′) – 6

Gatlin O’Donkor puts Oxford ahead against Stevenage (Image: Oxford United)

Got in some good areas but the pace of the defence sometime proves tricky.

Mark Harris (Goodrham 88′) – 6

Some good hold-up and link-up play across the afternoon. Did not really have any sights of goal though.

Substitutes:

Simon Eastwood – 6.5

Loved by the fans and made one or two good saves. Conceded late but not much he could have done.

Gatlin O’Donkor – 9

The epitome of an impact substitute.

Scored minutes after coming on, was a constant pressing force and worked tirelessly, winning the penalty for Brannagan to score.

Stan Mills – 7

A lovely ball in for O’Donkor, reminding fans of his ability.

Brodie Spencer – N/A

Tyler Goodrham – N/A