OXFORD Harlequins have snapped up two Newbury players as they bid to build on their encouraging start in South West 1.

Pete Davis, a 30-year-old winger and full back, who has also played for the Barbarians, Wales under 21s and Henley has already agreed to join Quins.

And lock Andy Smith, 34, who has represented the Army and England Counties, was due to complete his move last night.

Quins director of rugby Matt Maudsley said Davis and Smith would add vital experience to a squad boosted by Saturday's 34-34 draw at hotly-tipped Mounts Bay.

Maudsley said: "I played alongside Pete at Henley and he has been with Newbury for the past two seasons where he has been in and out of the first team.

"He will bring a lot to the club in terms of his knowledge and commitment "Andy has been with Newbury for the last four or five seasons.

"He is looking to build up his leadership and coaching skills and sees this as a good opportunity."

Maudsley knows Davis well because the two work together at Cherwell School.

He learnt of Smith's availability through Oxford University director rugby Steve Hill, who also coaches at Newbury.

Maudsley said: "The fact that Andy is based in Abingdon is ideal for us - we are closer for him than Newbury.

"Hopefully both players will also bring in some new contacts for us."

He added: "The way we played at Mounts Bay just shows that with a talented set of backs, you can score from anywhere.

"Despite the size disadvantage, our forwards were streets ahead of them in the end.

"I can't see any team beating them at their place, so we did exceptionally well.

"The fitness work we are doing with Saul Cobbing is really paying off."

NEWBURY winger Martin Nutt played for Quins' second team on Saturday as part of his recovery from a toe injury.