CHINNOR climbed to the top of National League 1 after earning a thrilling 22-20 victory at Cambridge.

Rob Bell’s 45th minute try proved to be the match-winner as the Thame-based side fought back from 20-7 down to make it three successive victories in their debut season in the third tier of English rugby.

Ben Penfold’s penalty put the hosts 3-0 up, but Chinnor hit back when Reon Joseph cruised over, Bertie Hopkin adding the extras.

However, Cambridge went on to lead by 14 points when Kwaku Asiedu (2) and Ziana Alexis went over, Penfold converting once.

Chinnor reacted impressively and reduced the arrears to 20-17 at the break, thanks to tries from Dan George and Joseph.

The visitors flew out of the blocks in the second half and Bell’s try edged them in front.

Chinnor pushed hard to increase their lead, before they survived late pressure to claim victory.

Henley Hawks suffered their first defeat of the season in National League 2 South as they were beaten 43-13 at Redingensians.

Joe Butler’s penalty gave the visitors the lead, but an Alex Seers try put the hosts 5-3 up.

Henley responded well and Tom Emery crossed.

But Redingensians led 17-8 at the break, thanks to tries from Miles Lloyd and Tom Vooght.

The home side’s Colin Thompson and Henley’s Sam Lunnon traded tries early in the second half.

But Redingensians dominated, cruising to victory after Robbie Stapley, James Baker and Joe Duffelen crossed.

Seers converted three tries, with Jamar Richardson also adding one conversion.