OXFORD University head coach Murray Henderson put aside personal heart-ache to steer his team to Varsity Match glory.

The New Zealander’s father, Peter, died last week, but Henderson kept the news from his players until the eve of yesterday’s 21-10 triumph over Cambridge at Twickenham.

Oxford’s players wore black armbands in tribute to their coach, who stayed with them rather than going home.

And their superb against-the-odds display gave Henderson plenty to cheer in his first Varsity Match at the helm.

Oxford captain Nick Haydon said: “It is very satisfying to put out a performance like that, especially for Murray.

“The character of the man, that he stayed over here after some very sad news back home, is immense.

“That was why we were wearing our black armbands and that meant a lot to us today.”

Try-scoring centre Alex Chees-man added: “We didn’t find out until last night, but Murray didn’t want it to affect the build up.

“That gave us just that little bit of extra inspiration on the day.

“Murray didn’t talk about it. It was a bit of a shock to hear, but testament to the man that he didn’t let it affect our build-up.”

Henderson, happy to let Haydon do most of the talking after the match, was delighted with his side’s “positive ending” after a poor season.

He said: “We have had a great ten days and we’ve solved a lot of problems and really prepared well.”

Henderson’s contract as head coach expired after the Varsity Match, but he stressed he would like to return to build on a winning debut.

“My time is up just at the moment,” said Henderson.

“I will discuss coming back for the same period or perhaps earlier, but at the moment I’m looking forward to the New Zealand summer and heading back with my family.”