KARL Robinson has hailed the role Oxford United’s fans have played in turning round their home form.

The freezing conditions were a test for all supporters, but just over 6,000 watched a 2-0 win against Blackpool.

It was the fifth straight home Football League victory for the U’s ­– the first time they have managed that since 1996.

That is some turnaround given the side lost five of their first six

games at the Kassam Stadium in Sky Bet League One.

In September, Robinson told a fans’ forum that he and his players “hated” playing at home, but it is becoming a fortress for them.

And the head coach believes those on the terraces have had a big part to play in the change of mood.

“We didn’t (enjoying playing here), but all of a sudden the fans went ‘if we can’t change the bricks and mortar we can affect it with our own voices’,” he said.

“They’ve been unbelievable. Once you get a few wins at home and you get a bit of belief around the place it does filter into the dressing room.

“The players have been excellent and the fans have been superb.

“I’ve been a season ticket holder and I know what it’s like to sing and support a team you love.

“I just want people to be proud of their team.”

United’s upturn in form has also been powered by goals from James Henry.

The top scorer set up the first goal against Blackpool, turned in by defender Ollie Turton, before netting for the fifth time in four games to take his total to 11 – matching his career-best for an entire season.

Robinson said: “Jamo getting another goal was sensational.

“It’s some run the man’s on and to be fair to the players one defeat in 14 is quite remarkable.

“That’s five straight league wins at home, it just shows you we are going in the right direction and we’re not a bad football team.”

United lost Rob Dickie late in the game to a thigh problem which had seen him miss training last week.

But they are optimistic the centre back came off before doing any serious damage.