Jimmy Phillips ensured Horspath posted a challenging target with a patient 68 from 113 balls, which included six fours. He shared an opening stand of 55 with Tom Coleman (19), before putting on 72 for the fourth wicket with Robbie Eason, who gave the innings late momentum with an unbeaten 48 off 63 deliveries. Medium pacer James Pyman picked up 2-38 for the Tics, while off-spinner Owen Marshall (1-19) and left-arm spinner Jack O'Callaghan (1-27) kept things tight.
The Tics were well placed at 94-1 at the midway point of their reply, but Horspath captain Lloyd Belcher (2-21) and off-spinner Harrison Ward (1-34) came on to turn the game in the home side's favour.
Tom Corner (44) and Tom Oliver (42) fell with paceman Angus Livingstone (3-24) - a Blues squad member who has made such an impact for Horspath this season - rocking the visitors with three clean bowled victims, including one in spectacular fashion as off stump was sent cartwheeling five yards.
The Tics required 19 off the last over bowled by Sam Payce (1-46) - another Oxford student who has been performing well for Horspath this summer - and although Barnaby Harrison (28no) and Thomas swung the bat valiantly it was out of reach with their total 175-7 at the close.
Posted by: Russ