Standout star powers Oxford United with early strike and second half assist | OneFootball

Michał Helik opened the scoring in the fifth minute with a close range finish and later supplied the decisive pass, as Oxford United won 3-1 at Preston North End.

Early on he attacked Cameron Brannagan's set piece delivery and steered his shot from the centre of the box into the net, settling Oxford and tilting the night their way.

From there the Poland international marshalled the back line, repeatedly clearing danger as Preston chased the game. He then rose at a corner to head across goal for Ciaron Brown to convert (61.).

Helik finished with 12 clearances, two tackles won and six possessions regained, a numbers line that underlined his command of the penalty area while Preston slung in 33 crosses and dominated the ball.

Because Oxford United kept him central to both boxes, his set piece timing and aerial strength punished Preston at one end and protected Jamie Cumming at the other during the heaviest pressure spells.

Oxford United move from 23rd to 21st in the Championship and host Blackburn Rovers next. Preston visit Coventry City next.