Oxford Hawks face a tense final three weeks in their quest to avoid relegation from English League Division 2 after losing 3-1 at home to Firebrands.

Hawks had a good share of the opening exchanges, but went behind after Firebrands pinned them back in their own 25.

Ed BaldockA loose ball from defence was pounced on and a well-struck shot from the top of the D went over keeper Paul Humphreys.

Hawks responded well and equalised after Simon Dawson picked out skipper Ed Baldock, who scored from close in.

However, the turning point came just before half time when an incisive ball into the Hawks' D by Firebrands was deflected to an unmarked forward who finished well.

Midway through the second half, the Bristol side went further ahead through a short corner.

As the game drew to a close, Hawks produced their customary end of game fight and forced a number of chances.

They netted with the final short corner of the game only to see the goal disallowed for lifting.