Oxford Harlequins blew a 27-10 lead as they lost 34-30 at home to Barnstaple in South West 1.

Quins flattered to deceive as poor decision-making and slack defence cost them dear in the second half.

No 8 Ben Nicholl score Quins’ first try on seven minutes after full back Huw Jones started the move and fly half Mark Forth converted.

Two minutes later, Barnstaple were level with fly half Neil Giddy converting a try from wing Luke Berry.

Forth slotted a penalty, then Jones bagged a superb solo score after chipping and chasing twice.

Giddy’s penalty made it 15-10 before captain and prop Simon Chadbone burst over.

It was 27-10 soon after the break when quick hands sent centre Shaunn Lombard in for a try, which Forth converted.

Two Giddy penalties reduced the arrears before Quins hooker Jack Rudman was yellow-carded.

Wing Mark Galliford finished a Barnstaple break on the hour mark, but Forth kicked a penalty to make it 30-23.

Giddy slotted two more three-pointers, the latter with the final kick, either side of a second Galliford try, to complete their comeback.