Oxford United 1 - 1 Newport County: Lenell John-Lewis scores as Newport hold Oxford

Posted Wednesday, November 25, 2015 by PA

Lenell John-Lewis struck a brilliant goal as in-form Newport held second-placed Oxford to a 1-1 draw at the Kassam Stadium to stretch their unbeaten run to eight games.

John-Lewis latched onto a loose ball 25 yards out in the 43rd minute and unleashed a stunning shot beyond goalkeeper Benjamin Buchel's reach and into the top right corner.

But after a strong spell of pressure, Oxford equalised on 72 minutes when substitute Pat Hoban controlled Kemar Roofe's left-wing cross and fired into the net on the turn from nine yards. And only some fine saves by Joe Day denied Oxford victory as he kept out efforts from Hoban and Roofe.

The U's had received a double blow as first forward Danny Hylton went off, looking unwell, and then fellow striker Ryan Taylor was replaced at half-time because of a groin injury.

Alex MacDonald was twice unlucky not to score in the opening 20 minutes. Callum O'Dowda drilled a centre across the face of goal, Hoban went close with an overhead kick at the start of the second half, and Roofe saw close-range header smartly saved by Day at his near post.

County were not totally on the defensive, though, as Buchel had to save from Scott Boden's header late on.