THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 2-0 win over Shrewsbury Town.

JACK STEVENS

Did not have a save to make on his 50th league appearance – 6

SAM LONG

Typically committed defensive display to safeguard the clean sheet – 7

Read the match report here

ELLIOTT MOORE

Sharper than most in the first half, snuffed out several attacks before they got going – 8

JORDAN THORNILEY

Seemed to win everything in the air. Back to his usual self after Saturday – 8

STEVE SEDDON

The lively Udoh kept him alert in the first half, but did okay – 6.5

HERBIE KANE

Less influential than recent weeks, but kept United ticking over – 6.5

HIGHLIGHTS: Watch the goals

ALEX GORRIN

Among the better players before the break, distribution occasionally let him down – 7

CAMERON BRANNAGAN

Should have scored earlier, but deserved his goal for another high-energy performance – 7.5

MARK SYKES

Excellent after the break. Moments of class going forward, tracked back well and a goal. MAN OF THE MATCH - 8.5

MATTY TAYLOR

Unlucky not to score before half-time, held the ball up well again – 7

GAVIN WHYTE

Was not going his way early on, but deserves praise for sticking at it – 6.5

Read also: How Oxford United worked around Karl Robinson's absence

SUBSTITUTES

James Henry (for Kane, 73)

Helped see the game out in midfield – 5.5

Nathan Holland (for Whyte, 73)

A couple of dangerous runs - 6

Dan Agyei (for Taylor, 88)

Unused: Eastwood, McNally, Forde, Bodin.

Substitutes who come on after the 75th minute do not get a rating.