Oxford Cavaliers went down to a 50-10 defeat at Coventry Bears in Conference South West and Midlands League.
Cavaliers, sponsored by Oxford & Cherwell Valley College, paid the price for defensive mistakes with the Bears taking advantage with four first-half tries.
Although Stewart Hannah scored his third try of the season for Cavaliers, who gave debuts to Matt Simpson and Raymond Lan (17), Bears took control in the second half.
Alex Benjamin clawed one back when he sprinted 40 yards to score under the posts, with Jack Briggs converting.
Cavaliers coach Mark Shaw said: "Coventry are the strongest team in our division. I was proud of the efforts our whole squad gave during an intimidating encounter.
"Our team is improving week on week and I believe we will beat the Bears in the return match."
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