OXFORD Harlequins produced a thrilling comeback to earn a fifth win in six games when beating local rivals Witney 48-28 at Marston Ferry Road.

The hosts overturned an 11-point half-time deficit to preserve their unbeaten home record and climb up to fifth in South West 1 East.

Quins opened the scoring on two minutes when Charlie Craig crossed and Sam Watkinson converted.

Witney replied when Jamie Burke set up Ben Fisk to go over on 20 minutes. Phil Thomas adding the extras.

The sides were only level for three minutes as a Watkinson penalty put Quins 10-7 in front.

But the visitors went on to dominate the rest of the half and deservedly led 21-10 as Al Richens and Scott Mortimer went over for tries. Thomas converted both.

Quins were out of the blocks quickly after the break, going 24-21 ahead, thanks to tries from James Stacey No 8 Fotu Latu, both of which were converted by Watkinson.

Witney lock Mortimer powered over again, Thomas adding the extras, as Witney led 28-24 with 31 minutes remaining.

But Quins responded when Latu picked up and drove over, before George Tierney crossed in the corner. Watkinson converted both tries as the hosts opened up a 38-28 lead.

Victory was wrapped up when captain Allan Purchase dived over, Watkinson adding the extras.

There was time for Watkinson to kick a 75th minute penalty.

Grove lost 27-20 at home to Stratford-upon-Avon.

Joe Chilvers and Josh Tyler scored tries for the hosts, who were tied 13-13 at half-time.

James Monks and Dave Maryon each added a penalty and conversion as they collected a losing bonus point.