CALLUM O’Dowda believes the manner of Oxford United’s victory at Exeter City will have struck a big blow to their promotion rivals.

Doubts had arisen over whether Michael Appleton’s men could sustain their challenge following home defeats to Northampton Town and Accrington Stanley last week.

It had seen their comfortable position in Sky Bet League Two’s automatic promotion places come under threat.

But despite being hit by an injury crisis, they showed real class to sweep Exeter aside in a 4-1 win on Tuesday night.

And O’Dowda thinks the U’s scoreline will have demoralised those looking to leapfrog them into the top three.

He said: “The two games before this they might think they could catch us at a bad time.

“They will look at this and think ‘oh God, they’ve gone all the way to Exeter and beaten them on a Tuesday night’.

“Looking forward hopefully we’ve put it into the other teams’ heads that we’re not going to be run over.”

The winger played his part on returning to the side in Devon, for what was his 50th United start.

O’Dowda has not had a run of league games in the XI since the autumn, with Appleton often using him off the bench.

The Republic of Ireland under 21 international wants to be known as a regular starter, but admitted he could see why the coaching staff have used him in short bursts.

He said: “I think I am a good impact player, if I’m being honest.

“I'd love to start week-in week-out for Oxford United, but it’s the manager’s decision and I respect that.

“When I do come on I just try to maximise it and when I do start I’m trying to hold my position.

“It felt really good to be back out there and get a start."

“It was a great result and the boys deserved it.”

O’Dowda’s performance put a strong case forward to keep his shirt for the visit to AFC Wimbledon.

Appleton said: “It was good to see Callum looking positive, I’ve not seen him like that for a long time.

“He’s had his moments where he’s come off the bench and been an impact player, but that’s the first time in a long time he’s started a game and looked really positive.”