Nothing flashy, but we got the job done.

That was the verdict of manager Chris Wilder after his Oxford United team returned to winning ways in Saturday’s 1-0 success at Gateshead.

“Style not so good, but substance excellent,” was his summing up after the match.

The U’s chalked up their tenth victory from 13 games thanks to Matt Green’s second-half winner, and extended their lead at the top of the Blue Square Premier to eight points again.

The result was the perfect response after the team’s unbeaten run had ended at Mansfield in midweek.

“It was a long journey, and after the disappointment of Tuesday night, we just wanted a reaction,” Wilder said.

“It was a tough game, against a decent side, who like to pass and play.

“We weren’t at our best, and we needed to lift them at half-time, but it was as important a win as against Wrexham and Luton.

“I don’t think many teams will come here and find it easy, but we managed to edge it, and that’s the sign of a decent side, which I think we are.”

United had to grind it out at the International Stadium, better known as a top-flight athletics arena. With the pitch a long way from the stands, there is little atmosphere on the pitch.

“Through a nine-month season there’s different challenges that are thrown at you.

“The Luton and Wrexham games take care of themselves, especially the Luton one where you’re going into great surroundings and a great atmosphere, but here it was an eerie place to play.

“The punters are a million miles away from the pitch, so you really have to dig deep to drive yourself on a bit more.

“We’ll have a few of those games throughout the season.”

He added: “It wasn’t a stylish or creative performance, but we got the win.”

However, victory did come at a price with Damian Batt collecting his fifth yellow card of the season, which means he is banned for the visit to Barrow on Saturday.

“I thought Damian was a bit unfortunate with his booking,” Wilder said.

“But Damian misses one, and that opens it up for someone else to come in.”