KARL Robinson praised Oxford United’s gutsy display as they emerged from a difficult night with a point at Burton Albion.

Matty Taylor’s 91st-minute goal was the visitors’ second equaliser, after Dan Agyei struck within two minutes of coming on.

Read also: Burton Albion 2 (Akins 20, Murphy 71), Oxford United 2 (Agyei 63, Taylor 90+1)

It ensured they took something at the end of a game which was complicated by a family bereavement, a new injury and a fresh suspension.

The result was a step in the right direction after Saturday’s 4-0 hammering at Peterborough United, but just as at London Road there was a heated discussion in the changing room.

And Robinson was pleased to see a reaction in the second half.

He said: “We’ve been dealt a few cheeky digs to the ribs, to use boxing terminology. We’re getting a few jabs at the moment.

“There are so many things I’m proud about, there are things I’m frustrated (at), but it’s nothing to do with the fans or the players.”

He added: “My players are very good people and I back them.

“They know how stern the words were at half-time.

“A few things got said and I thought we played angry in the second half. That’s something we’ve got to find at the beginning of games.”

United’s problems began even before they left their hotel for the Pirelli Stadium, when Jamie Mackie, who was due to start, was called back home by a family bereavement.

Taylor said: “We send our regards to him and his family. It’s not nice to hear.

“That was our team talk really – do it for Jay.

“It’s nice to get a goal but it’s better when you win, so it’s bittersweet in the end.”

He added: “I didn’t think we were at it in the first half but in the second half it was much improved.

“I thought it only looked like there would be one winner.

“It was bad timing for their (second) goal, but we’re glad to get something out of the game in the end.”

The line-up was further reshuffled by a hamstring injury to Liam Kelly 20 minutes into his first start.

His replacement, Alex Gorrin, then picked up his tenth caution of the season, ensuring he is banned for clashes against Sunderland and AFC Wimbledon.

In that context it was looking like a miserable evening for the U’s, but Agyei felt the draw was a big moment.

He said: “It’s a massive point. I think at the end of the season this is going to go really far.”