THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 4-2 win over Cambridge United in Sky Bet League One.

JACK STEVENS

Left exposed for the first goal, but could have done better to stop the second. Stayed alert to make a good save from Smith at 2-2 and ran the clock down in the closing stages – 6.5

RYAN WILLIAMS

Involved in all four goals – that says everything you need to know. A constant outlet down the right and linked with Sykes fantastically well. Got caught ball-watching for Cambridge’s second, which was a reminder that he was playing out of position – 8.5

GALLERY: See how Oxford United paid tribute to Joey Beauchamp

LUKE MCNALLY

Dragged out of position for the first goal, although United should have cleared the danger after that. Solid on the ground and in the air, with one shoulder charge on Smith getting a good reception – 7.5

SAM LONG

Got better throughout the afternoon on a day United paid tribute to another homegrown hero. Let Smith escape for the opening goal, but made up for it with some good headers at both ends. Brought the ball out of defence well – 7.5

STEVE SEDDON

Most of United’s attacking play came down the right, so had less impact going forward than usual. Saw one shot blocked early on. Defensively okay, although let George Williams in on the half-hour mark – 6.5

HERBIE KANE

Influence seems to be growing again after a little dip following his return from suspension. Pulled the strings in midfield and a couple of lovely passes deserved a goal. Set-pieces were mixed – 7.5

WATCH: Highlights of yesterday's game

MARK SYKES

Involved in three goals and his assist for Baldock was a peach. Cambridge found him and Williams very difficult to contain down the right – 8

CAMERON BRANNAGAN

Eight goals in eight games for the midfielder and he took his two yesterday excellently. Tidy in possession and showed his usual bite in the tackle, although his ninth booking of the season means he must be careful in the next two matches. BOOKED – 8.5

GAVIN WHYTE

Another bright display in the central role, although faded a little after the break. Some intelligent runs beyond the front two and got his foot in with some good challenges. BOOKED – 7

MATTY TAYLOR

His goal will have meant the world on an emotional day. Lively in the first half and almost scored out of nothing after the break. Has struck up an instant understanding with Baldock – 8

SAM BALDOCK

His strike capped an afternoon where he was simply a cut above. The forward’s movement was exceptional, and he helped create United’s first and second goals. MAN OF THE MATCH – 9

Read also: Karl Robinson proud of Oxford United on emotional day

SUBSTITUTES

Marcus Browne (for Whyte, 76)

Would not usually give ratings to late substitutes, but he looked sharp and strong in the challenge. Almost scored on his return - 7

Nathan Holland (for Taylor, 83)

James Henry (for Sykes, 90+2)

Unused: Eastwood, Brown, Forde, McGuane.