Oxford Devils came through their stiffest test so far in National league Division 1, beating closest rivals Reading Rockets 80-76 at the Rivermead Centre.

Leaders Oxford strengthened their grip on top spot in style, coming back from 31-23 down after a tough first quarter.

The Devils stemmed the tide, led by Todd McNeil, in the second quarter and then stepped up a gear.

They led 65-61 going into an action-packed final quarter, which saw Reading close the gap to one point before the Devils responded.

Keith Kelly had to leave the game with a knee injury, but Steve Riley began to look unstoppable and with NcNeil making two important foul shots, it put the game beyond Reading's reach.

Oxford scorers: Steve Riley 24, Todd McNeil 23, OJ Choutka 19.

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