Kingstone Press Championship One

OXFORD RL fell to a battling 12-4 home defeat against leaders North Wales Crusaders, but still climbed to second in the table.

The hosts earned a losing bonus point for finishing within 12 of Crusaders, which saw them overtake Hemel Stags, who lost 30-12 to Oldham.

Oxford started well, creating a couple of half chances.

The visitors took the lead against the run of play with a try on 20 minutes.

Oxford full back Ian Burch put in a great tackle on Crusaders’ loose forward Jono Smith, but he was able to off-load for stand off Andy Moul to score.

Full back Tommy Johnson converted.

The hosts hit back within five minutes, centre Matt Fiander going over from stand off Tommy Connick’s pass.

After the break, North Wales’ poor decision making and stubborn Oxford defence kept the visitors’ lead down to 6-4.

Oxford centre Sean Morris was denied an interception by Crusaders’ wing Dan Birkett.

North Wales struck decisively when prop Ryan MacDonald muscled his way over and Johnson converted.

Oxford RL: Burch, Onyango, Fiander, Morris, Johnson, Connick, B Robinson, Hadden, Clough, Ellison, Hoggins, Halliwell, Roden. Subs all used: Calladine, Osborn, Stevens, Baird.

Attendance: 374.