THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 3-2 defeat at Portsmouth in Sky Bet League One.

JACK STEVENS

Pompey’s second goal looked saveable, although maybe that is being harsh on the goalkeeper. Last season he might have got something on the third, too. A great save from Hirst to keep United in it – 6

LUKE MCNALLY

Defensively strong and a threat going forward. Dominant in the air, while he brought the ball out of defence well and is starting to master the overlapping centre back role. Great finish to give United hope. MAN OF THE MATCH – 7.5

Read the match report here

SAM LONG

In no-man’s land for Pompey’s second, although he was left exposed by those in front of him. Generally solid and went close to scoring after the break. BOOKED – 6.5

CIARON BROWN

Chasing shadows for the second goal, but did not do too much wrong. Won some good headers and got stuck in. Passing was occasionally ragged – 6

RYAN WILLIAMS

We saw his usual energy up and down the flank, although Pompey limited his impact. Some good link-up play in the first half and sent an effort wide at 2-1 – 6

HERBIE KANE

Not at his best. Lost possession in the build-up to Pompey’s second and looked exposed in midfield at times. Involved in United’s first goal – 5

Read also: Karl Robinson defiant despite defeat at Portsmouth

CAMERON BRANNAGAN

Always busy and looking to get on the ball, but the hosts managed to stop him doing much damage. A couple of good blocks in the first half and had a shot charged down – 6

STEVE SEDDON

A tough evening against his former club. Unable to make an impact going forward and caught out of position defensively. Appears low on confidence – 5

NATHAN HOLLAND

Involved in both United goals as he showed flashes of ability, just not regularly enough. Needed to be stronger in the tackle in the build-up to Pompey’s equaliser – 5.5

MATTY TAYLOR

Some nice link-up play in the first half, but otherwise very quiet. Looked tired and his influence faded as the game went on, although he had a decent shout for a penalty in the second half – 5

MARCUS BROWNE

Brilliant pace, power and finish to open the scoring. Worried the Pompey defence when he got the ball, only to run out of energy quickly – as you can understand – 7

WATCH: Marcus Browne's opener and the other goals

SUBSTITUTES

Gavin Whyte (for Seddon, 63)

Some nice touches and saw one shot blocked – 6.5

Sam Baldock (for Browne, 63)

Always a willing runner, he did not have much to feed off but provided the assist for McNally – 6.5

Anthony Forde (for Holland, 82)

Unused: Eastwood, Mousinho, McGuane, Henry.