Oxford Univ 21, Bath 27

A powerful Bath second string were subjected to a torrid final period as the courageous Oxford University pushed them to the wire at Iffley Road last night.

The senior club, containing eight players with first team experience, two England under 21 caps and a US Eagles international, led 27-9.

But, with the backing of a large crowd, the Dark Blues staged a tremendous fightback.

With tries from second row Adam Russell and replacement Henry Nwume plus a conversion by fly-half Seb FitzGerald, the Dark Blues gave Bath a mighty scare.

And with No 8 Andy Beattie in the sin bin, it was only dogged defence that saw the visitors to a narrow victory.