THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 2-1 win at MK Dons in Sky Bet League One.

SIMON EASTWOOD

Should not have let the opening goal squirm under him, but he more than made up for it with the save from Parrott and then, crucially, a great stop to deny Brown - 7

SAM LONG

Gave the ball away too much in the first half, when it looked like Boateng had the beating of him. Much more solid after the break. BOOKED - 6.5

ELLIOTT MOORE

Arguably bypassed too easily for their goal, but otherwise another solid performance. Seems like he is bringing the ball out from the back with more purpose - 7

JORDAN THORNILEY

A typically resolute display. Very little got past him and he soldiered on even after a nasty elbow in the throat. Downgraded slightly for the red card, but even that was understandable. BOOKED, SENT OFF - 8

Read the match report here

STEVE SEDDON

Had a tough task against the excellent O’Riley, plus Watson steaming forward too. Less impact going forward than on Tuesday, partly explained by the quality of the opposition - 6.5

JAMES HENRY

One of his quieter games. Found it difficult to gain a foothold as MK enjoyed more possession and was replaced by McGuane on the hour. BOOKED - 5.5

HERBIE KANE

Fuelled United’s relentless second-half display with pass after pass. Claimed an assist for Taylor, too - 7.5

CAMERON BRANNAGAN

Will be frustrated with a first half where he should have scored, but what a performance after the break. The heart of so many United moves and tenacious in the tackle. MAN OF THE MATCH - 8.5

Read Karl Robinson's reaction here

MARK SYKES

Drifted in and out of the game for much of the first hour, although deserved an assist for Taylor’s second disallowed goal. Did not let a spurned chance affect him and kept his cool for a memorable winner. BOOKED - 7

MATTY TAYLOR

Had the ball in the net three times, two should have counted. He is so much more than his goals, though, and pressed the MK defence into several mistakes when they played out from the back - 8.5

NATHAN HOLLAND

Got into several good positions, but many of his crosses were cut out. Pressed well and his alertness helped lead to the winner - 6.5

SUBSTITUTES

Marcus McGuane (for Henry, 63)

Great to see him make an impact off the bench. Energetic display and eager to get on the ball - 6.5

Gavin Whyte (for Holland, 84)

Ryan Williams (for Taylor, 90+3)

Unused: Plumley, Forde, Bodin, Winnall.

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