OXFORD City Stars twice came from behind before succumbing to a late strike as they went down 3-2 at Streatham Redskins.

Stars would have leapfrogged their opponents into third place in the English National League South Division 1, but were edged out by George Norcliffe’s 55th-minute goal.

Simon Anderson’s men had won 7-0 on their last visit to south London in January, but this time the home side were a different proposition.

Mark Duffy began a busy night by denying Callum Best, but the Stars netminder was beaten in the sixth minute by Norcliffe.

Jaroslav Cesky equalised before the end of the first period, following an assist from Hallam Wilson.

An open second period failed to yield a goal at either end, but Redskins edged ahead through Best less than a minute into the final period.

Cesky hit the frame of the goal, before laying on the chance which Wilson converted from close range to make it 2-2 in the 47th minute.

The match was in the balance heading into the final stages, but the excellent Duffy’s resistance was finally broken five minutes from time.

Best was again involved, providing the pass from which Norcliffe despatched.

Stars complete their regular season this weekend, visiting Solent Devils on Saturday before hosting London Raiders a day later.