A MAN accused of murdering his partner strangled her in a sex game that went wrong, his barrister told jurors yesterday.

Sean Freaney, 51, denies murdering Lisa Consterdine, 48, at their Purslane Drive, Bicester, home on February 28 last year.

David Hislop, defending at Oxford Crown Court, said they were indulging in “erotic asphyxia” which “heightens sexual senses” by cutting off oxygen.

The prosecution claims scratches on Freaney’s face and buttocks were her attempts at self-defence.

But Mr Hislop said the defendant had become overcome with sexual excitement himself, brought on by a reduction in oxygen and “panic” as Miss Consterdine thrashed out and scratched him.

Home Office pathologist Dr Simon Poole told the court: “Victims often use their hands to prevent attack.”

Asked by Mr Hislop if he could rule out “accidental death by strangulation during the course of erotic asphyxia” Dr Poole said he could not.

Dr Poole said the neck compression triggered a fatal heart attack. The post mortem also revealed the mother-of-two had significant heart disease.

The trial continues.