SALISBURY RFC came unstuck at Oxford Harlequins as they were consigned to their first defeat since returning to South West 1 (East).

In the end, five points was the difference despite Dan Jeffries' men having the win in their grasp.

Two breakaway tries had given the hosts a 10-0 lead at the interval.

The game continued in the same vein, with Oxford taking advantage of any opportunity and running another early converted second half try before Green and Whites finally made it on the scoreboard.

Rob Larcombe scored an excellent try which was converted by Tom Pottage. The Oxford support started to get nervous as Salisbury started to take more advantage of the possession they had, despite Oxford running in what proved to be the winning try, which was converted.

With the score at 24-7, the game suddenly swung in Salisbury’s direction and there was still 15 minutes to play.

Luke Esnouf bundled over the line for a typical forwards try and late on Dave Tonge weaved his magic to score under the posts, making it easy for Pottage to add the final touch.

At 24-19, a one try was needed for Salisbury to salvage a draw but time was up.

They welcome early pacesetters Towcestrians at Castle Road on Saturday.