Witney Roadrunner Mathew Ashton is a notable absentee as the Oxford Mail Cross Country League moves on to Enslow Quarry for the third round this Sunday (December 29).

Mathew Ashton The youngster, who has finished second overall in each of the opening two rounds, is suffering from an ankle ligament injury and is definitely out of action for the Headington Roadrunners-hosted event.

It should prove an interesting challenge, with the revamped course unlikely to be as muddy as last year's event.

The course has changed markedly, with a new field providing the main challenge.

Headington's men and women's team should be favourites for their home event, though once against, White Horse Harriers' men will challenge strongly.

For Headington, Gary Harris and Richard Bromley are due to run, and will certainly look to be among the frontrunners.

Other individuals set to challenge will be Bourton's Dennis Walmesley, making his first appearance of the season, while Cirencester's Mike Smith - the Abingdon Marathon winner - makes his season's debut in the league.

In the women's event, Headington should again be strong challengers, particularly as Cirencester are without the excellent Ellen Leggate.

Jo Choulerton is away in Australia, but Headington should still have enough strength in depth to take the team prize.