Kyle Vassell was thrilled to become an instant hero for Oxford United after bagging a hugely important winner just five minutes into his debut.

The 22-year-old, signed on loan from Peterborough United on Thursday, spectacularly introduced himself from 20 yards to give the U’s a 2-1 home win over Carlisle United in Sky Bet League Two.

It was a result which calmed relegation fears around the Kassam Stadium, with the club now eight points and seven places clear of the bottom two.

Vassell struck the winner after United had come from behind with Patrick Hoban finally ending the wait for a goal in his 13th start as he cancelled out Paul Corry's long range free-kick.

Carlisle had Troy Archibald-Henville sent off for two bookings midway through the second half.

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Vassell revealed afterwards it was the first time he knew he had scored the moment the ball left his boot.

“When people have said that before I didn’t really understand it, but with this one I knew,” he said.

“It could have gone anywhere, but there was one gap in the corner and it went in.

“I haven’t scored since September, so I’m delighted to have a goal again.

“You try not to think about it and keep it at the back of your mind.

“I did that as best as I can coming here and if I hadn’t scored I wouldn’t have been upset.

“I’m just delighted I’m off the mark and hopefully it can continue.

“I wanted to come here and help the club and let the club help my career as well.”

Vassell was not confident he would even get on the pitch, as Patrick Hoban and Danny Hylton caused problems up front.

The loanee was particularly impressed with Hoban’s equaliser.

He said: “What a goal and if I hadn’t have come on I couldn’t have complained because both of them were excellent all game.

“He took his goal really well and looks like a handful, if I could play with him or Hylts I would be buzzing.”