BROMSGROVE RFC made a losing start to the 2023/24 Regional 1 Midlands season after suffering a 38-26 defeat away at Oxford Harlequins.
Boars scrum-half Sam Brown, flanker Richard Hance and winger Jordan Maddocks all crossed for tries in vain at Oxford Road.
Oxford’s squad included former England winger Tom Varndell who touched down after just five minutes as the home side went into the break with a 25-11 lead.
The Boars reduced the deficit to four points after the interval only for Oxford to eventually seal victory and deny the visitors any bonus points.
Bromsgrove are next in action at home to Derby on Saturday, September 9 with kick-off at 3pm at Finstall Park.