OXFORD United always believed they could get a result against Rotherham United, says Cameron Brannagan.

The U’s were missing ten players through illness or injury for the clash with the Sky Bet League One leaders, but battled to a 0-0 draw at the Kassam Stadium.

United were up against a side who have not lost in 16 games, while the fierce, freezing winds of Storm Arwen made conditions tricky.

The verdict: Oxford United's game plan worked to perfection in draw that felt like a win

But the U’s ground out a stalemate to extend their own unbeaten run in League One to six matches.

“It’s a massive point,” Brannagan said.

“We’d never back down to anybody and never give up, no matter what.

“That’s what’s drilled into us players, we’re winners – we don’t like losing.

“If you go out there thinking you’re going to get beat, then what are you in the industry for?

“I don’t think anybody thinks like that, especially in an industry like this.

“It’s only a game of football and anything can happen.”

United were again without seven players who were isolating with Covid, but the draw means they took four points from two games while their squad was so depleted.

Brannagan was pleased with United’s tally from the two matches, especially with Rotherham having lost just three times this season.

He said: “To be honest, I wanted three points on Tuesday and three points on Saturday.

“If you look at the bigger picture we’d have taken four points.

“Not many teams will beat them, they’re a strong unit.”

Rotherham strikers Michael Smith and Freddie Ladapo hit the woodwork in the first half, but United finished strongly.

RATINGS: Every Oxford United player marked out of 10

And Brannagan paid tribute to the 6,619 home supporters who braved the elements.

He said: “They got right behind us and it was fantastic to see.

“It was absolutely freezing and they didn’t stop singing, it pushed us right to the end.”

Those who tested positive for Covid should return to training this week.

It means goalkeeper Connal Trueman will return to Birmingham City when his seven-day emergency loan expires tomorrow.

Brannagan said: “He’s done great, he’s a top kid as well.

“It must have been tough for him at first – he didn’t know anyone and the way he’s come in and commanded his box was terrific.”