Oxford United full-back George Baldock believes confidence played a big part in Saturday’s 2-0 defeat at Shrewsbury Town, writes JACK JOHNSON.

Liam Lawrence’s second-minute penalty gave the hosts something to hold onto and, after riding wave after wave of Oxford pressure, the same player sealed the win late on.

Baldock, on loan from MK Dons until the end of the season, felt Shrewsbury had the belief that they could score at any time.

He said: “I think we felt a big gulf in confidence.

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“When they went 1-0 up it was almost like ‘we’ll sit behind the ball, we’ll dig it out and get another goal’, whereas we’re throwing everything at it.

“It’s hard, I’m lost for words coming away losing 2-0.”

United remain 19th in Sky Bet League Two and six points above the relegation zone.

Baldock stressed that he would find relegation a heartbreaking experience.

He added: “I really respect the boys and all the staff – the last thing I want is for this club to be relegated.

“It would kill me if Oxford got relegated, just as it would for all the rest of the boys.

“It is the worst thing you can have on your CV – being relegated from League Two.”

The right back praised United’s fans, with 359 making the trip to Shropshire.

He said: “I completely understand the fans’ frustration, their edginess and nervousness, but I think it is up to us to be professional.

“These times are the hardest.”