THE quality of Oxford United’s first two goals had head coach Michael Appleton purring as his side thrashed Tranmere Rovers 3-0 at Prenton Park, writes DAVID PRITCHARD.

The visitors had to weather early pressure from the very anxious home side, who prop up the Football League.

But after seeing off the danger, United grew more into the game and the three points were effectively sewn up with two rapid goals after the break.

Both Kemar Roofe’s header and Danny Rose’s tap-in came thanks to clever approach play in the final third.

Appleton said: “The message in the second half was just to make sure we defend properly, because we knew that there would be opportunities and they would have to throw men forward.

“I thought the first two goals were magnificent, to be honest.

“Some of the passing, movement and finishing was great.

“It was good to watch.”

The victory means United are in their best form of the season, collecting 12 points from a six-game unbeaten run.

When asked whether it could be described as a perfect away display, the U’s boss said: “I suppose it is.

“It was a clean sheet, three good goals and we had to be disciplined.

“We defended and countered really well.

“It probably should’ve been five or six, but that’s maybe being a little bit greedy.”

One of Appleton’s three changes saw Chey Dunkley come in after three months sitting on the bench.

The former Kidderminster defender said: “Before the game we knew they were going to come out all guns blazing because of the situation they’re in.

“We equipped ourselves well and kept our heads.”