Oxford United skipper Barry Quinn admits he should get a lot more goals than he does.

But he's working at it!

The 28-year-old centre back, who has played a major role in United's superb defensive record at home under Darren Patterson, popped up with his first goal of the season on Saturday - and it proved the winner as the U's defeated struggling Droylsden 1-0 at the Kassam Stadium.

And after volleying in Adam Murray's free-kick, the chirpy Dubliner then had the cheek to tell United's strikers exactly how to do it.

"It was a great ball in by Muzza," he said. "I keep telling the centre forwards not to smash it . . . you just have to pass it into the back of the net, you know!"

But Quinn, who also netted just once last season, in the home win over Weymouth, probably isn't the best person to give advice about finishing. The former Republic of Ireland international has struck only four goals in 265 appearances for Coventry, loan club Rushden & Diamonds, and Oxford United.

"I'm definitely disappointed that I haven't scored more for Oxford. I should be up to seven or eight, or nearer double figures in my goals for the club because I go up for corners," he said.

"It's very disappointing and it's something I've got to work on, and as a team we've got to work on it. We don't score enough from set plays."

Quinn says United's players have been working hard on the training ground under Patterson and coach Mickey Lewis and there is no let-up even though the U's don't have another game until March 1, when they visit Forest Green Rovers.

"It's two weeks without a game, but the manager has us on a regime now," he added. "We're working as hard as we ever did and we were back in Monday grafting.

"We're feeling better for it, and it's only going to benefit us.

"Mickey's brilliant to work with as well. I've got a lot of time for him. He's bubbly, a great character, brilliant to have around. His training sessions are quick, bright and sharp.

"I always have a joke because he doesn't ever seem to have a change of clothes - I think he sleeps in his training kit - but he's brilliant to have around for the lads with his enthusiasm."