DEREK Fazackerley admitted familiar failings let Oxford United down on the final day of the season.

The U’s went down 2-1 at a Blackburn Rovers side who finished the campaign as Sky Bet League One runners-up.

Darragh Lenihan headed the hosts in front via a free-kick from Charlie Mulgrew, who then had a penalty saved by Simon Eastwood.

United showed spirit to dig in and then equalise through James Henry, before Jack Payne came off the bench to score the winner.

Fazackerley said: “The difference between the two sides was what happened in the two penalty areas and they were slightly better than us.

“That’s why they’re going to the Championship.

“We played some decent football in good areas, but just didn’t have that finishing touch when you needed it.

“It’s been an Achilles heel all season that we conceded from a set-play.

“Other than that there were some good displays and the lads showed a lot of spirit.

“In fairness we had a fantastic travelling support again and other than the result I don’t think we could be too disappointed.”

Fazackerley remains the record appearance holder for Blackburn, so was pleased to see his former side return to the Championship at the first attempt.

He said: “It’s the end of a long season and they’ve achieved what they wanted, which is promotion.

“It’s important for a club of this size, I’m just a little bit sorry that we’re not following in their footsteps.”