NICKY Wroe was disappointed Oxford United did not make Portsmouth goalkeeper Trevor Carson work harder as the midfielder’s debut ended in a stalemate.

The 28-year-old came straight into the team after joining on loan from Preston North End on Friday.

He produced a solid performance as the U’s made most of the running without finding a breakthrough.

A host of half chances led to 13 attempts on goal, but only two hit the target and Wroe bemoaned a game where nothing came off in the Pompey penalty area.

He said: “With the amount of possession we had, we just didn’t find that ball in the final third to create a really good chance.

“It’s disappointing, but on another day sometimes it falls to someone and they stick it away.”

United changed their formation, with Johnny Mullins playing in a three-man midfield, alongside Wroe and Danny Rose.

The regular centre back contributed to a fine defensive display which snuffed out Portsmouth’s strikers, drawing praise from the new recruit.

Wroe said: “He (Mullins) did a great job in front of the back four and really protected them.

“I think that’s why their front two were really quiet.

“They didn’t really have much to go at because Johnny stuck in there, won his headers and tackles.”

Wroe is unavailable for United’s trip to Charlton Athletic in the FA Cup tomorrow night after playing for Shrewsbury in the first round.