OXFORD Harlequins let slip a promising lead as they slipped to a disappointing 34-21 loss at home to Maidenhead in South West 1.

Full back Pete Davis's penalty put Quins ahead in the second minute.

They kept up the pressure and were rewarded when a catch and drive saw flanker Tim Knapp driven over for a try in the seventh minute.

Davis slotted a second penalty, but Maidenhead centre John Hammond's try reduced the arrears.

Hammond's midfield partner Max Wilcocks was yellow-carded on 22 minutes.

This allowed Quins more space and Owen Gustafson, Beau Wilson and Charlie Mawle combined to set up a try for winger Andy Noyce.

Quins shipped tries to hooker Richard Craig, wing Stuart Mackay and Wilcocks in a poor end to the half. Fly half Mark Ruddick converted two.

The hosts responded after the break and prop Paul DeLange was driven over in the 53nd minute after Maidenhead winger Alex Cannon had been sin-binned.

Elio Recchia, Wilson and Davis opened gaps, but the moves broke down.

Ruddick kicked a penalty and converted Wilcocks' second try to end the scoring. Quins found no way through despite a yellow card for Ruddick.