Mickey Lewis says that the mood in the Oxford United camp is one of wanting to prove the doubters wrong.

The U's assistant manager (pictured) admits that he was hurt "big time" by Saturday's 3-0 home defeat against Burton.

But ahead of the game at relegation-threatened Stafford on Saturday, Lewis knows that the team have a point to prove.

"We will see what they are made of," he said.

"They have never been a problem in training, and are always lively and a great bunch to work with.

"But they know that they let themselves down on Saturday and have to put that right.

"We had a meeting on Monday to talk about the game and asked the players to say what they thought and that went well.

"They have reacted well so far, but they know they have to do it in the next match.

"It wasn't a nice experience at all for anybody. I hurt big time after that performance."

Lewis was full of praise for the young United side who beat Kidlington 3-0 on Tuesday night.

"They did very well indeed," he added.

"It was a young team and we were really pleased with them.

"It is good to get the young players playing against men - it beefs them up a bit and teaches them what they can expect.

"We have got several youngsters who have been in and around the first team this season and it is great for the club."

Striker Alex Fisher scored twice, and drew special praise.

"Fish went on loan to Brackley last week and he scored three minutes into his debut there," Lewis said.

"The reports we had from David Oldfield (Brackley manager) were very positive, and he obviously scored twice the other night so he's getting better and better.

"We're just trying to give him a bit more experience now."