MIKE Ford and Christophe Remy made successful comebacks for Oxford United in last night's Avon Insurance Football Combination Game at the Manor Ground, but the architects of the 3-2 win over Watford Res were Tony Wright and Matt Murphy.

Ford and Remy, barely tested in a one-sided first half, looked a little rusty after the interval when a Watford revival quickly wiped out the two-goal lead and the visitors threatened to snatch an unlikely win.

United only regained the initiative after Paul Powell replaced Gary Wickens and Wright secured the points with the second goal.

The Welsh Under 21 International opened the scoring after 16 minutes driving in a low cross from Martin Aldridge, who otherwise had a poor game, and Murphy extended the lead after 38 minutes with a snap volley from a half cleared corner by Jamie Cook.

Poor defending was punished by Grant Cornock in the 50th minute and David Perpetuini seven minutes later.

With 18 minutes to go Cook was brought down by Darren Ward and Wright drove the free-kick through the defensive wall and past a startled keeper.

United Res: Jackson, Remy (Folland 73), Wickens (Powell 62), Wright, Davies, Ford, Rose, Murphy, Aldridge, Cook, Angel. Sub not used: Stevens.

Attendance: 211.

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