TONY Benson said Oxford RL’s narrow defeat to North Wales Crusaders showed how far his players have come in a short time.

Oxford climbed to second in Kinsgtone Press Championship One after collecting a losing bonus point from Sunday’s 12-4 reverse at Iffley Road.

And head coach Benson was particularly pleased with the impact of his new converts to the 13-man code.

“There were nine players in our squad on Sunday, who had played five or fewer games of rugby league,” said Benson.

“They didn’t look out of place and you can’t pick them out from the rest.

“We have put a lot of hard work in and are getting results now.”

Full back Ian Burch and hooker George Stevens made their debuts against Crusaders, while Kenny Calladine, JJ Baird and Matt Fiander were playing their second matches.

Oli Johnson, Sean Morris, Andrew Hoggins and Tommy Connick appeared for a fifth time.

By contrast, promotion-chasing Crusaders included former Great Britain international Stuart Reardon.

Benson was delighted with how his players competed.

“To keep a team like that to 12 points, we have done pretty well,” he said.

“They haved put 50 points on other sides.

“We have also included 11 local players so far, which is good for a new team.”

He added “I couldn’t be happier. The way they are progressing is great.”

Benson praised former Bracknell RFC player Burch, who was due to make his debut on the wing, but switched to full back after Jonny Leather pulled out with a bug.

“He slotted in really well,” said Benson.

Despite a very wet afternoon, Oxford had a crowd of 374 for the match.

Benson added: “The other thing that has been fantastic is the crowd.

“The atmosphere is among the best I have experienced.”

  • OXFORD loose forward Martin Roden was named in the Premier Sports Championship One team of the week after his display against Crusaders.
  • ROCHDALE Hornets will now visit Oxford on Sunday, June 9 after their fixtures were reversed.

The return clash at Spotland Stadium will be on Sunday, July 28.