A lacklustre performance by Oxford Devils saw them go down 96-71 to cloest rivals Derbyshire Arrows, who take over top spot in National League Division 1.

Devils' poor showing in the first period was to prove costly, putting the Arrows on the foul line no fewer than 11 times as they took the quarter 24-8.

Devils picked themselves up in the second period, cutting the deficit to eight points, only to allow the home team to pull away again.

At his point, the Devils had no answer to the Arrows' 6ft 10in import Jon Bevington, who finished the game's highest scorer with 33 points.

A strong third period from the Derbyshire side put the game out of reach of Oxford and although they regrouped, winning the final quarter, it was to no avail as they fell to their second defeat of the season.

Devils coach Bill Baker said: "Being an all-British team is good for basketball, but it also shows your shortcomings when you come up against teams with good overseas players."

Devils scorers: Alexander 18, Milnes 14, Robinson 13.