Grove coach Neil Osborne is staying optimistic despite seeing his side lose three matches in a row.

Their 24-19 defeat at home to Chipping Norton in the EDF Energy Senior Vase was the latest blow, but Osborne stressed the season has a long way to go.

He said: "We have had three games in a row now where we have lost by one score.

"Last season we were winning these sort of games.

"However, I would rather us lose this game and have a wake-up call than lose in the league.

"Our league is a little bit deceptive at the moment. Olney won't be nearly such a good side if they lose three players.

"I think Wallingford look the strongest at the moment, but there are eight teams who could be up there by the end of the season."

  • Oxford Cavaliers have signed a sponsorship deal with Oxford and Cherwell Valley College.

The deal will help Cavaliers fund new kit and equipment in time for the new season in April.

Coach Mark Shaw said: "This is great news for the Cavaliers.

"With the sponsorship money, we can continue to take the club in a positive direction.

"We are indebted to OCVC for their support of rugby league in Oxford."