Oxford kick-started their season with victory at home to 10-man Rushden in front of new chairman Kelvin Thomas.

The home side dominated the first half and took a deserved as Barry Quinn turned in Chris Carruthers's corner.

Phil Trainer doubled his side's lead as he sprinted clear before neatly slotting the ball into the far corner.

Rushden pulled a goal back thanks to Daryl Clare's 25-yard strike, before the visitors had Gareth Jelleyman sent off for a second bookable offence.

Oxford Utd: Turley, Clarke, Quinn (Willmott 70), Foster, Carruthers, Odubade, Murray, Burnell, Trainer, Haldane, Guy.
Subs Not Used: Hinchliffe, Deering, Taylor, Hutchinson.

Booked: Odubade.

Goals: Quinn 42, Trainer 55.

Rushden & Diamonds: Roberts, Osano, Hope, Burton (Lee Phillips 53), Jelleyman, Tomlin (Burgess 71), Woodhouse, Wolleaston, Kelly, Knight, Clare (Rankine 69).
Subs Not Used: Gulliver, Corcoran.

Sent Off: Jelleyman (81).

Booked: Jelleyman, Burgess.

Goals: Clare 57.

Att: 4,645

Ref: David Coote (Newark).