Peter Clarke marked his first game as Oxford University captain by leading them to an exciting 25-24 victory over Penguins at Iffley Road last night - their first success over the invitation side for six years.

The teams alternated six tries in a loose first half, at the end of which the Dark Blues trailed 19-17.

They scored tries through lock Peter Wright, replacement winger Chris Record and fly half Jules Allfrey plus a conversion from full back Tim Catling.

Winger Ronalko Dailly (2) and centre Bryan Milne went over for Penguins, with fly half Tommy Turner kicking two conversions.

In a competitive second half, Oxford won with a penalty from Catling and a second try for Record, while Penguins managed just a try by flanker Sam Viggers.

In his last game at Oxford after five years, winger Jonan Boto limped off after 20 minutes.

Oxford University: Catling, Boto (Record 20), Humphry-Baker (O'Flanagan 62), Gregory, Haw, Allfrey, Henry (Walker 75), Allhusen (Lutton 53), Try, Matthews (Davies 53), Wright, Payne, Healy (Fenlon 53), Clarke (capt), Davies.