LEAGUE leaders Banbury were unable to make it seven wins in a row as they fell to a 7-6 defeat in the clawing mud at Pinley.

The defeat reduced Bulls’ lead at the top of Midlands 2 West (South) to two points ahead of the festive break.

Conditions were difficult for both sides and Banbury skipper Ed Phillips, who struggled for footing on the muddy surface, kicked a penalty wide early on.

The boot of fly half Sam Stoop kept Pinley in their own half and after winning another penalty, Phillips successfully slotted the three points.

As the first half went on, the Bulls managed to get the backs more involved as Jed Boyle and Robin Cooke both had runs in the wide channels.

But the visitors lacked accuracy in the opposition’s 22, while Pinley’s defence missed very few tackles.

The hosts made use of a strong wind in the second half, pinning the visitors back and a lapse in concentration from Banbury led to a converted try.

Bulls responded and a Phillips penalty cut the scoreline to a point.

But Pinley were happy with their lead, kicking the ball back to the visitors who, despite having more of the ball, were unable to find the crucial opening.