AN Oxford Saints team missing several key players were on the end of a 52-15 defeat at home to Nottingham Caesars in Division 1.

Almost half their first-choice squad were unavailable for the match, which saw the writing on the wall early on.

By the end of the first quarter, Saints trailed 21-0, and at half-time were 38-2 behind – their only score coming when a bad snap from Nottingham sailed out the back of their end zone.

To their credit, Oxford did improve in the second half, two touchdowns by new recruit Devon Powell helping restore some pride.

Powell returned a kick-off 71 yards for an electrifying touchdown and then grabbed another stunning score, this time linking up with quarterback Scott Gallen for a 70-yard pass play.

Jonny Dover added one extra point, but Saints were unable to find another breakthrough.

Oxford now have a three-week break before travelling to the Leicester Falcons, where they are hopeful a number of injured players will return.