ROB Hall feels criticism of the Papa John’s Trophy ignores the competition’s importance for fringe players.

The forward scored the only goal as Oxford United beat Cambridge United in the third round, booking their place in Saturday’s quarter-final draw.

The competition has taken plenty of flack since Premier League and Sky Bet Championship clubs started entering academy sides in 2016/17.

Questions over whether the Trophy is necessary in this season’s already-congested calendar have also been raised, but it has allowed U’s head coach Karl Robinson to blood youngsters and give game-time to squad players.

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Hall fits into the latter category, and while the absence of supporters is keenly felt, he knows the competition is his chance to shine.

He said: “For players who don’t play in the league, this is our opportunity.

“It’s harder without the fans, they came to the last round (against Forest Green Rovers) and they were loud.

“It’s definitely one that players like myself want these games thick and fast – it’s just a shame they don’t, which makes it tougher.

“As you get to the later stages it gets more exciting.

“Whether it’s this game or in the FA Cup, you have to find it within you to get yourself going.

“Players like myself who aren’t around the starting XI have to understand that.”

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Seven of the 27-year-old’s eight starts this season have come in the cup competitions – including five in the Trophy.

Hall began the victory at Accrington Stanley in September, but has generally been used as a late substitute in Sky Bet League One.

The former West Ham United trainee admits this has made it difficult to build momentum, but it will not change his attitude.

He said: “It’s mentally tough, but I’m a grown man now and I feel like I can deal with it.

“They’re not always going to be sparkling performances, but you’ve got to be professional.

“I’ve kept my head down and worked hard.

“People may not see that or agree with it, but I’m here to work hard and that’s what I’ve been doing.”