Oxford Harlequins had more than enough possession and territory to win theiry first-round clash in the EDF Energy National Trophy at home to Westcombe, but fell to a 21-15 defeat on Saturday.

But all too often they lacked the guile and patience to cut through in a second half they dominated.

Quins can certainly point to a harshly disallowed try when they were adjudged to have been held up on 51 minutes, and they still only finished six points adrift.

Westcombe Park fielded just one regular first-team starter in centre James Kite, so were never likely to repeat the 80-point thrashing they handed out to Chinnor in National 3 South.

But they defended with passion and no little skill to progress to round two.

Captain Sam Barnett gave Westcombe a 9-3 lead with two penalties, with Quins' full back Pete Davis replying with one.

Westcombe No 8 Jamie White was sin-binned for a professional foul on the half hour and Quins took full advantage when prop Paul DeLange piled over after a five-metre lineout.

Davis converted to give the hosts a deserved lead, but it was short-lived.

Excellent running from centre Nicky Davis and Barnett gave winger Tom Mitchell space to scamper over.

Quins suffered a major blow when Westcombe hooker Phil Rogers touched down on 47 minutes after scrum half Sam Carter had sliced through midfield.

Barrett's conversion made it 21-10, but Westcombe showed little attacking threat after that.

Quins rolled their maul towards the try line countless times, but when scores looked on, they suddenly went wide and played into the defence's hands.

They finally broke through on 80 minutes when prop Simon Chadbone touched down in the left corner after Owen Gustafson's sharp break.

But Quins were unable to press again.