Oxford Devils went down to a 112-102 defeat to the much-fancied Worthing Thunder in the National Conference, despite an excellent performance.

Devils got off to the perfect start through a three-pointer from Keith Kelly, but they had problems containing the lively Worthing centre, Moore, who notched up 13 first-quarter points to put Thunder into a commanding 12-point lead by the break.

In the second quarter, Devils responded in style, outscoring the home side 26-18 to silence the large home crowd, as Phil Alexander, OJ Choutka and Robinson scored regularly to reduce the arrears to 50-46 by half-time.

Devils continued to press hard in the third quarter, but Jerry, Worthing's second overseas star, added more points as the home team led 86-81 going into the final period.

Worthing increased their lead to nine points before Oxford could respond, but with just a minute left, there were only six points separating the teams.

As Devils took risks in a desperate bid to win the game, Worthing capitalised with two late scores to seal victory.

Scorers - Oxford Devils: Alexander 24, Robinson 23, Choutka 21.

Worthing: Moore 30, Jerry 30.