Paul McLaren said that the opening goal on Saturday is his.

The Oxford United midfielder saw his long-range free-kick take a wicked deflection before hitting the net.

And when asked whether he was claiming the goal, he replied: “Definitely. It’s mine. No doubt.

“You can’t take that one away from me, it could be my only one of the season!”

It was McLaren's first goal at the Kassam Stadium and second for the U's – his first coming at Morecambe last season, also from a free-kick.

“That’s two goals and two free-kicks," he said.

“It was a bit fortunate today because I don’t think it would have worried the keeper too much to be honest.

“But was great to see it hit the back of the net – and it’s my goal.”

McLaren admitted that United were not at their best on Saturday, and that a draw was a decent result considering the performance.

“We probably didn't des-erve it today,” he said.

“We were a little bit flat and it didn't happen to us, but we have taken seven points from the last nine and if you keep that ratio up, you're going to be up there.”

Meanwhile Accrington manager John Coleman felt a touch aggrieved that his side came up against an inspired goalkeeper.

United stopper Ryan Clarke produced some great saves to deny Coleman's side, and although Peter Murphy’s strike earned his side a point, it could have been more.

“I have been critical of my players not getting enough shots on target,” Coleman said.

“But today they got them on target, but Oxford's keeper made what I would say were three very, very good saves.”

Coleman added: “Oxford will win a lot of matches this season. I’m pleased with my players’performance, and I'm sure a win is just around the corner.”