OXFORD United’s attacking football was a joy for John Mousinho – but the debutant believes they should have been even more clinical against Gillingham.

The defender enjoyed an excellent first appearance, helping the U’s to a 3-0 win at the Kassam Stadium.

All the goals came early in the second half, but despite continuing to create chances, they could not extend the lead.

While it was only a minor criticism, the experienced defender knows how important it will be in tighter games.

He said: “It was a pleasure to watch and in the first 20 minutes of the second half we created chances and were all over them.

“(But) we took our foot off the gas a little bit, which was slightly disappointing.

“I don’t know if we had Tuesday’s game (against Bradford City) in mind or if it is because we’re still a side that’s getting used to really punishing sides.

“But all we have to do is make sure we build on that and make sure we are ruthless, so in those situations we win five, six and seven and don’t concede the chances we did.

“There will be games where that’s the difference between 0-0 and 1-0.”

It was otherwise a perfect afternoon for Mousinho, who looked assured on what was his 400th career appearance.

He took over from Mike Williamson, whose wife gave birth on Thursday, but even after so many games the 31-year-old still felt nervous.

He said: “I think that’s good. The minute you step out and haven’t got that nervousness and bit of excitement you’re in trouble.

“I was excited waking up this morning to come and play football and make my debut.

“The lads made it very easy for me, the crowd did as well and the fact we played that well made it a great day all round.”