OXFORD Harlequins director of rugby Matt Maudsley believes there is cause for optimism after the first two months of their season.

Quins are just two points off second spot in South West 1 and have played each of the division's top five sides.

Maudsley said: "I still think we can push for second spot. Mounts Bay look like they may win the league, but we've got to keep our momentum going.

"We are not going to underestimate Reading Abbey next week. We know they are due a good win."

And one reason for his optimism is the successful start he feels Quins have made to their partnership with Oxford.

The two clubs have been training together since the summer in an arrangement that sees Quins use Oxford RFC as their home ground.

Maudsley said: "I think the partnership with Oxford is working well.

"I'm sure it's having an effect on their results.

"I have heard complaints about us sharing players, but they are all properly registered.

"It just tells those doubters we are achieving things."

*THE draw for round two of the EDF Energy National Trophy is a case of what might have been for Oxford Harlequins and Chinnor.

Both sides felt aggrieved at losing to Westcombe Park and North Walsham respectively and now their conquerors have been paired together.

With Chinnor entering a second team in the Oxfordshire Cup, this would have been the only competitive clash between the two rivals' top sides this season.