MERRICK Will scored four minutes from time as Oxford United Women did the double over Ipswich Town Women.

The forward fired home late on to earn the U’s an excellent win in Suffolk, moving them to within two points of their fellow high-fliers with a game in hand.

United cannot catch FA Women’s National League Southern Premier champions Southampton Women, who they visit on Wednesday, but six points from their final two matches of the season would guarantee second place.

READ MORE: Jack Stevens 'devastated' as play-off bid falls short

Liam Gilbert’s side pressed high from the start and Will was booked inside three minutes for a heavy challenge.

The first half was closely-fought, with United limiting Ipswich’s threat and controlling possession as they looked to force an opening.

One presented itself four minutes before the break when Beth Lumsden found Sophie Baker inside the penalty area, but Sarah Quantrill parried away.

The U’s remained on the front foot and Sarah King stole the ball high up the pitch shortly after the interval, only for Ipswich to prevent Lumsden getting a shot off.

The Tractor Girls gave United a taste of their own medicine moments later when they turned over possession, with Rose Kite saving from Anna Grey to keep the scores level.

As full-time approached it looked increasingly like one goal would be enough and it fell the way of the visitors.

United again closed down effectively and won possession, before working the ball to Will who found the net from distance.