In an error-strewn game, Bicester slumped to a 41-12 defeat at Stratford-upon-Avon to increase their chances of being relegated from South West 1 East after one season.

The visitors had no answer to the superior handling skills and pace of the Stratford side, especially in the first half at the end of which they trailed 31-5.

The hosts scored five tries, while Bicester points came from an unconverted try by flanker Freddie Myatt.

To their great credit, the visitors staged a stirring second-half performance, but scored only one try through No 8 Wes Westaway and converted by Sam Richardson, to show for it.

Stratford counter-attacked clinically to score their final two tries.

Bicester are now cut off at the bottom of the table, 11 points behind their nearest rivals.