OXFORD Rugby League recorded their first win of the season as they edged Hemel Stags 31-28 at Iffley Road.

The victory sees the Blues move up to tenth in Kingstone Press League 1 with two points from three games.

Nathan Conroy scored two tries as Oxford survived a late charge to beat Hemel for the second time this season after victory in the Ladbrokes Challenge Cup.

The Blues were first on the charge as Adam Brook crossed for an unconverted try, but Hemel took a two point lead when Michael Brown went over and John Swindells added the extras with the boot.

Alex Anthony touched down for Hemel, Swindells converted, but Oxford replied through Sean Morris.

Mark Barlow landed the kick.

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Anthony then raced clear for his second, but Oxford responded again with Marcus Brooker going over for a converted try.

The score swung back in Hemel’s favour when quick hands put in debutant Vinny Finnigan.

But Oxford ended the half with another try for 22-20 as Conroy forced his way over.

Barlow converted.

After the break, Oxford started the stronger and Louis Richards looked certain to cross but dropped Danny Allan’s pass.

The Blues then looked to have put the match beyond the visitors when Richards made amends to dive over, before Conroy crossed for his second after the ball had been kicked through.

Hemel fought on and Jamie O’Callaghan spun out of a tackle to go over.

Barlow’s one-pointer kept the Blues in control and they held on for the win, despite Finnigan’s late unconverted try.

Oxford travel to third-placed Newcastle Thunder on Sunday.