MICHAEL Appleton hailed an “almost perfect” week as Oxford United added a 3-1 win at Accrington Stanley to their midweek victory at York City.

The six-point haul took the U’s up to fifth place in Sky Bet League Two, just three points behind new leaders Plymouth Argyle.

It was an impressive response to the frustration of a goalless draw at home to Morecambe in the previous game, which was stopping Appleton describing it as a flawless few days.

The head coach, whose squad had stayed in the north for four nights, said: “It’s almost perfect.

"If we had taken three points against Morecambe it would be perfect.

“But in terms of getting the players together and making sure we got the best preparation it was great and to get two away victories just tops it off.”

United’s defensive mettle was tested after conceding equalisers in both games, before going on to regain their advantage.

It was particularly the case at Accrington, who had a good spell after drawing level, and Appleton was encouraged by his side’s ability to bounce back.

He said: “We had to scrap, it was a difficult game – don’t underestimate how difficult it is here.

“You’re going to have moments like that in games.

“We had a lot last year that didn’t quite go for us and you have to get through little scares like that, by people putting bodies on the line.”

Appleton can now look forward to his first derby clash with Swindon Town, visitors to the Kassam Stadium tomorrow night in the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy.

But he will do so without Danny Hylton, suspended after collecting a fifth booking of the campaign for kicking the ball away in stoppage time.

The U’s boss said: “It’s unfortunate for Danny because there’s a lot of interest in the game. He will be a bit disappointed with that.”