OXFORDSHIRE head coach Martin Moran said his side performed admirably in their National Under 20 Shield semi-final defeat to Surrey.

Moran’s men were beaten 19-8 in an entertaining clash at Esher RFC and emerged with much credit from their run to the last four.

Oxon trailed 7-5 at half-time after responding to an early Surrey converted try with prop Anthony Kent’s pick-and-drive score.

Centre Will Millett gave the visitors the lead with a 55th-minute penalty.

But they could not hold on as Surrey finished with two more tries, the first converted.

Moran said: “I believe that scoreline was somewhat flattering to Surrey.

“This was a really enjoyable game of rugby with Oxfordshire acquitting themselves well against a very strong Surrey side.

“We have been very disprupted by the weather, with the squad only managing two training sessions between the Somerset quarter-final and the semi-final.

“Nevertheless the players performed admirably as they have done throughout the campaign.”