Oxford Harlequins produced their best display of the season, but still went down 30-17 at home to National 3 South West second-placed side Exmouth on Saturday.

In a highly-entertaining game, Quins did well to come from behind to lead, but could not hold on against their high-flying opponents.

The hosts opened strongly with Ethan Carlisle varying the tactics and Luke Brown prominent in the line-outs.

But it was Exmouth who took the lead from a penalty scored by fly half George Meadows.

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Moments later, it was 8-0 to Exmouth as slack Quins defence let in Matt Ryan for a try in the corner.

Harlequins responded in the 37th minute, when Alan Purchase picked up from the base of the scrum and drove for the line.

Winger Keni Fisilau took the pass and dived over to score for a try that Carlisle converted.

Two minutes later, Quins took the lead.

Carlisle made a midfield break and left wing Jack Robinson took the pass to go on a diagonal run to the right corner to score a fine try, which was not converted.

Early in the second half, Exmouth’s George Meadows kicked a penalty to cut Quins lead to one point.

Almost immediately, the home side struck when centre Mike Lee scored a fine try to make it 17-11.

The game was in the balance before Ollie Rice scored in the 71st minute to edge Exmouth ahead.

Two further tries from Ross Morehead and James Harris in the 72nd and 78th minute gave the scoreline a rather flattering look.

It was an encouraging display from Quins, despite the result.

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