Oxford Sports got their tactics spot-on to cause a huge shock and win the Ladies 3-Pair Division 1 title.

Going into the final match of the season against defending champions Oxford City, Sports knew that only a win would do - and a convincing one at that.

And their 7-2 success proved more than enough to lift the crown for the first time since 2002.

City will look back at their penultimate match with basement side Bicester, where they only put out two pairs - forfeiting three rubbers.

That result gave Sports a real lift, and they produced some fine tennis to brush aside City, champions for the last two years, and clinch top spot.

City end the campaign with a disappointing third-placed finish.

Sports' victory was not only down to playing better on the day, but also a tactical masterstroke.

Fearing their promising juniors Amelia Milsom and Holly Hoare may struggle together at No 3 pair, Sports split up their regular top pair, playing Cressida Henderson with Milsom and Karey Coltart with Hoare.

And it worked a treat.

Henderson and Milsom were unbeaten at first pair, while Coltart and Hoare won two rubbers at second pair and veteran duo Jane Westell and Maggie Edwards also claimed two successes at No 3.

Top pair Barbara Gibbins and Esther Symmonds won both City's rubbers, but that proved in vain.

The title has not now been out of Oxford for 20 years.

Banbury West End were the dominant ladies' team in the county during the 80s, but since their success in 1986, North Oxford, Oxford City and Oxford Sports have taken over.

During that time, City have won nine titles, Sports eight and North three.

The Men's Division 2 title will be decided tomorrow when Banbury and Bicester meet.

The duo boast 100 per cent records and have already sealed promotion to the top-flight, but both will want to be crowned champions.

A draw would give Banbury the crown on rubber count.