OXFORD City Stars were given a real fright before securing a tight 7-5 success away to Bristol Pitbulls.

After five double-figure scores, the English National League South Division 2 leaders were given a reality check by tenacious hosts, who belied their lowly position in the table.

Indeed, Pitbulls led 3-1 during the second period.

But head coach Kenny Redmond’s side stepped up a gear, with four goals inside three minutes to establish a command which led them to their 14th win in 15 league outings this season.

Bristol took the lead in the second minute through Michael Hargreaves, before Mike Whillock levelled in the 14th minute of a quiet first period, which ended 1-1.

This was followed by an eventful second period, in which Olly Shone struck twice in three minutes to give the home side a shock two-goal lead.

But Stars’ response was quick and deadly.

In space of 2mins 17secs, they scored an amazing four goals, two of them from Josh Oliver and the others by Dax Hedges and Kamil Kinkor.

Just before the end of the period, Oliver completed his hat-trick to give Oxford a useful 6-3 lead.

With Whillock serving a total of 32 minutes of penalties, due to a series of offences, Stars still came under pressure.

Joe Edwards, assisted by Oliver, stretched their lead to 7-3.

However, Bristol kept on battling and pulled goals back through Matthew Thornhill and Macauley Coppock.

There was still nearly five minutes left, but Stars held on to their advantage without undue alarm to go nine points clear at the top.

Following a New Year break, Stars will return to the ice at home to Bracknell Hornets on Sunday January 7.