PLAYER RATINGS: Oxford 1-1 Sunderland - Here’s how the Lads rated after penalty shoot-out loss

Jon McLaughlin: 6/10

Caught well off his line for Oxford’s first goal, albeit a decent strike. Had little to do outside of the penalty shootout.

Conor McLaughlin: 7/10

A determined effort from Conor McLaughlin despite some misplaced passes. Tried hard in a strange formation, hard to find fault with him and he arguably contributed more than his fellows at the back.

Joel Lynch: 6/10

Making his case as Sunderland’s resident antagonist. Hard tackling and not easily caught out, but seemed to crock himself in the process.

Tom Flanagan: 5/10

Involved to some extent but not as much as someone in his role should be. Made some strong challenges initially, tired as the game wore on. Clearly lacking match fitness but not the worst case made for more game time in the League, though not the best either.

Jordan Willis: 6/10

Started well but seemed to feel the nerves of his compatriots as the first half wore on. A capable performance with the odd concern, but that could be attributed to the initial formation.

Grant Leadbitter: 7/10

Grant Leadbitter enjoys nothing more of an evening than a calm pass backwards. Was composed if not always 200% with his passing. Created some good opportunities recycling play and showed his vision.

George Dobson: 7/10

Put himself about with varying success but too easy to shrug off. Needs to grow stronger to make an impact in that role, though his energy became a greater threat against tiring opposition and he made himself known towards the end of the 90 minutes.

Max Power: 5/10

Largely anonymous, which was a key reason for Oxford’s first goal. Somehow contrived to put it wide of the post from 6 yards with the ‘keeper beaten all day long. Not firing on all cylinders.

Aiden McGeady: 5/10

Lacking his killer instinct and showing signs of frustration. Enjoyed more of the ball when Parkinson switched formation, but it only served to highlight his blunted edge.

Denver Hume: 5/10

Made a few impressive runs first half but struggled in his own box at times, and ran hot and cold going back. Not his best performance.

Marc McNulty: 7/10

Very unlucky to dash the post before a fateful counter-attack, and again when Power squandered the opportunity he created at the end of the first half. His efforts were repaid with a bundling shot from a few yards out. Couldn’t hit a barn door at times but it’s hard to take away from his resolve.

(SUB) Will Grigg: 6/10

Showed good hold up play early on and made himself available. His presence in a front two heaped the pressure on the opposition and helped force an equaliser. Definitely prefers the support of a partner. Sadly the pressure was too much when it came to penalties, and that sky-high miss has cost him a point.

(SUB) Luke O’Nien: 6/10

Dived straight into the game in the last half hour and had his work cut out helping force it level, almost scoring from close range.

Man of the Match: George Dobson