Rutherford took advantage of the absence of Karl Bushell to inflict the first defeat of the season on Forum A in Division 1 of the Oxford & District Association.

Glen Freeman and Neil Hurford won two apiece, and a Chris Rowlatt triumph put 5-4 up.

Freeman and Hurford then wrapped up the doubles to complete the victory.

Fraser Harris put up terrific resistance with a fine maximum to give Forum a consolation point.

Andy Misseldine's treble helped St James A to a 5-5 draw with Forum B.

In Division 2, leaders Begbroke A's grip on top spot is looking increasingly tenuous following a 6-4 defeat by Forum D.

Begbroke were not at full strength, but it was still a good first win of the season for Forum with much credit going to youngster Ross Henderson, who recorded a maximum.

Division 3 leaders Vikings D came from 3-0 down to run out 7-3 winners against St James B.

RESULTS.

Div 1: St James A 5 (A Misseldine 3), Forum B 5; Lord Nuffield A 5, Bicester A 5; RAL 6, Forum A 4 (F Harris 3).

Div 2: Haddenham A 8 (A Cornish 3), Lord Nuffield C 2; Gladiators 8 (K Giles 3, P Knight 3), Witney A 2; Forum D 6 (R Henderson 3), Begbroke A 4; Vikings B 9 (P Borrowdale 3, R Dullens 3), Forum C 1.

Div 3: Witney B 2, Vikings C 8 (R Whiteaway 3); Vikings D 7 (M Aistrop 3), Begbroke B 3; Vikings C 8 (K Rae 3, R Whiteaway 3), St James B 2; St James B 3, Vikings D 7; Bicester B 8 (G Loder 3), Bicester C 2.

Div 4: Holton 7 (E Shearer 3), Haddenham B 3; Forum G 3, Lord Nuffield E 7 (Y Hsu 3); Forum H 0, Forum F 10 (A Hughes 3, C Smith 3, L Christer 3).

CUP DRAW.

Handicap Shield 3rd round: Bicester A v Lord Nuffield C (+150), Forum A v Forum D (+180), Gladiators v Bicester C (+180), Vikings A v Lord Nuffield E (+220).