JAMES Walter scored two touchdowns as Oxford Saints defeated South Wales Warriors 13-6 to record the first victory of their Southern Conference Central Division 1 campaign.

With rookie quarterback Marcus Alphonso making his first competitive start in place of Ben Denton, Saints started on the front foot at Llanharan.

They took the lead towards the end of the first quarter.

Tight end Richard Bloomer nearly hauled in a great pass from Alphonso into the corner of the endzone, but failed to maintain control.

However, Saints managed to cap off the drive with a score, as Walter charged in from two yards for the touchdown.

Rookie Dean Fuller kicked the extra point which was deflected by a Warriors defender, but fortunately went through the uprights.

Defensive units for both teams continued to dominate and prevented any scoring in the second period.

The Saints hoped to extend their narrow lead, but missed with field goal attempts from 36 and 31 yards.

The third quarter began with neither team’s offence able to move the ball.

Warriors struggled under pressure from Oxford’s strong defensive line, featuring veterans George Wright, Conor Whitehouse and Deke Morton.

The Warriors had several opportunities to score, but multiple dropped passes and a touchdown called back for a penalty, gave the Saints relief.

In the fourth quarter, Saints’ runners Ryan Kingshott and Walter advanced the ball into scoring distance and the latter hammered it in for his second touchdown, this time from five yards out.

Dean Fuller attempted the extra point, but the ball was not set in place.

In the final minute, quarterback Maxime Ayoul completed a pass to Stewart Bicker for a 24-yard gain the hosts’ only touchdown.

Nate Webb lined up for the extra point but it hit the crossbar as Oxford held on for a victory against former Premiership opponents.

Oxford head coach Andrew Day said: “South Wales dropped quite a few passes and could have easily won. I’m grateful to get out of here with a victory.”

The Saints have a week for training and return to action Sunday May 7, when they host the Ouse Valley Eagles at Tilsley Park.