Oxford United Res 3, Reading Res 1

MATT Murphy struck twice in two minutes as United's youngsters beat experienced Reading in last night's Avon Insurance Combination match at the Manor.

Oxford had five YTS players pitted against Reading, who included seven players with first team experience.

The visitors took the lead through triallist Nathan Jukes, released by Portsmouth last month, lost Jason Bowen who had time to pick out Phil Hadland, whose drive went in off a post.

Lee Nix, scorer of the only goal in United's win over Reading in the Southern Junior Public Cup, struck a post after 28 minutes, But after Jamie Cook switched over to the right, United took control and Murphy netted twice in the last two minutes of the half.

The first followed a brilliant run past three defenders by Cook. Then Lee Nix created an opening for Murphy to blast in the second.

United completed the scoring when Reading keeper Nicky Hammond dropped a fierce shot from Jon Shepheard and Nix whipped in the rebound.

Swedish triallist Daniel Majstorovic spoiled a solid performance by being booked by referee Wendy Toms for a late tackle.

Oxford United Res: Jackson, Jukes (Brennan 76), Shepheard, Rose, Majstorovic, Wilsterman, Remy, Hill, Murphy, Nix (Richards 70), Cook. Sub not used: Davis.

Attendance: 220.

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