A YOUNG Oxford United Under 19 side edged a nine-goal thriller against Woking to win their only home pre-season friendly.

Ryan Griffiths and Amari Davis-Stephenson each scored twice in an exciting 5-4 triumph at the U’s training ground, their strikes coming either side of a Mac Masters finish.

United had fielded a young side for Saturday's 0-0 draw at Aston Villa and there were more changes against Woking, with several members of the Under 19 squad set to feature in today's first-team double-header against Peterborough United.

It provided an opportunity for several players to impress and Griffiths wasted no time to make his mark.

The Under 16 striker put the U's 2-0 up inside half an hour, heading his side in front before dispatching Davis-Stephenson's centre.

United had defended resolutely at Premier League Villa, but conceded either side of the break as Woking levelled the scores.

Masters soon put the U's back in front after Will Owens's free-kick fell loose, before the latter drove forward and crossed for Davis-Stephenson to make it four.

The winger sealed victory with an excellent lob, although he will be frustrated he spurned the chance of a hat-trick when his late penalty was saved after Woking had pulled a goal back.

The visitors made it 5-4 in the closing stages, but United held on to make it three wins from four for the academy in pre-season.

They visit Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday.