THE Oxford Mail player ratings for Oxford United’s 2-1 defeat to Morecambe in Sky Bet League One.

JACK STEVENS

Beaten by a wicked deflection for the first goal, while he can hardly be blamed for the second. Dealt with set-pieces and was alert enough to exit his penalty area and sweep up. A solid late save from Connolly – 7

RYAN WILLIAMS

Did not have to do much defending other than for 15 minutes in the first half. Good energy up and down the right wing, will be disappointed he sliced his only chance wide. BOOKED – 6.5

LUKE MCNALLY

Headed the ball into a dangerous area for Morecambe’s first goal and grew visibly frustrated during a rocky spell in the first half. Recovered well and threatened offensively after the break – 6

SAM LONG

Saw as much of the ball as any other United player, but seemed hesitant to drive forward until the closing stages. Cleared up well when the hosts looked to hit United on the counter-attack – 6.5

Read the match report here

CIARON BROWN

Three excellent sliding tackles to stop Morecambe in their tracks after the break. No complaints with his defensive work, unable to make much impact going forward though – 7

MARK SYKES

His driving run to set up Taylor’s goal was a sign of things to come. Purposeful in possession, he looked dangerous all evening and should have had another assist for Holland. MAN OF THE MATCH – 7.5

HERBIE KANE

Turned into trouble for the winner and it ultimately cost United. Almost presented Stockton with another goal when he lost possession moments later. Did not do much wrong other than that, but they were big mistakes to make – 5.5

WATCH: Highlights of last night's game

MARCUS MCGUANE

Some moments of real quality but needs to do it more regularly. Appeared to tire less than he did at Plymouth, which is a good sign – 6.5

GAVIN WHYTE

His second-half decision to pass to Holland instead of shooting suggested his confidence in front of goal has been dented. Once again, it was only the end product missing – 6

MATTY TAYLOR

Put United ahead with a great finish and linked the play well. Surprising that he did not get another chance, considering the visitors’ dominance – 7

READ MORE: Morecambe defeat tough to take for Matty Taylor and Karl Robinson

NATHAN HOLLAND

Showed his quality with some driving runs at McLaughlin and clever passes to create chances. Forced Carson into an incredible save, but he should score – 7

SUBSTITUTES

James Henry (for McGuane, 64)

Less impact than Saturday. Wasted a couple of promising openings – 6

Billy Bodin (for Whyte, 64)

Worried Morecambe with his trickery, created chances for himself with good feet – 6.5

Sam Winnall (for Holland, 76)

Unused: Eastwood, Mousinho, Seddon, Forde.

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