Oxford Cavaliers produced their worst 40 minutes of the season in the first half of Saturday's Rugby League Southern Conference match at Crawley Jets where they went down 24-10.

Cavaliers were unable to capitalise on some early pressure due to numerous handling errors. The tide turned decisively after 20 minutes when the Jets scored their first try of the day after Oxford lost possession. Three further tries were added before half-time and Cavaliers' hopes for topping the table and securing a play-off berth were in tatters as they trailed 20-0. The visitors came out for the second half with renewed composure.

Full back Steve Lacey, making his first appearance in four weeks after undergoing knee surgery, had an immediate impact. Retrieving the ball on his own five-yard line, he left four defenders in his wake before off-loading to Craig Aven for a try. Hicks converted. Pressure from the Cavaliers brought another try when Shires put Fairhurst through a gap to score, making it 20-12 with all to play for.

However, indisciplne proved Oxford's undoing, and the momentum swung back in favour of the home side when two unnecessary penalties were conceded and duly converted.

Coach Dave Doran has his work cut out this week as he prepares his team for their next opponents, North London.