HISTORY is on Oxford's side as they seek to avoid setting an unenviable record losing sequence against Cambridge in rugby union's 118th University Match at Twickenham next Tuesday.

The Dark Blues have lost their last five matches at the Rugby Football Union headquarters, which equals the depressing sequences they suffered from 1972-1976 and 1980-1984.

This year's match will be played on December 7 and Oxford are led by a South African, Norman Celliers.

It was on that date in 1993 that Oxford, skippered by Springbok Chad Lion-Cachet, last lowered the Light Blues' colours with a 20-8 victory. The star that day was Oxford's Canadian fly half Gareth Rees who landed three penalty goals and two drop goals for a 15-point tally.

"The fact that we've lost five in a row won't prey on the minds of the 22 players involved, although I know our adminstrators feel the pressure," said Celliers. "It's important for us to stay focussed."

Oxford's director of rugby Steve Hill said: "We're going into the match as underdogs. Having won five in a row puts Cambridge in a very strong position.

"But I know we've got the experience in the key positions to prevent them making it six in a row."

ANDY Roberts, the 6ft 9in lock who won Blues in 1997 and 1998, continues his return from injury when he plays for Oxford University Greyhounds against the Cambridge LX Club at Iffley Road tomorrow (2.30pm). Roberts has missed most of the season following a shoulder operation.

FOR the first time this year, the Under 21 Varsity Match will be played at Twickenham, on the morning of the big game. Kick-off is at 11.30

Story date: Wednesday 01 December

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