BANBURY increased their lead to three points in Midlands 2 West (South) as they put seven tries past Barkers Butts in a 43-12 victory.

Despite Ken Key’s early try, Bulls were 7-5 behind after a converted score for the hosts.

But Banbury responded and led 24-7 at half-time, thanks to tries from Joe Mills, Simon Brand and Carl Daniels.

Ed Phillips converted two of the scores.

Both teams were down to 14 men at the start of the second half as Bulls’ Manu Paniagua saw yellow.

Phillips converted his own try, before Jimmy Manley crossed, the former missing with the boot, for a 36-7 lead.

The hosts replied with a score of their own, but Bulls had the last say with Phillips again converting his own try.

In Southern Counties North, Bicester lost 22-19 at home to Swindon College Old Boys.

A Charlie Grabe penalty gave the hosts an early lead, but Bicester responded through Dave Hampton’s try, which Dan Spencer converted to make it 7-3.

With visiting hooker Gareth Evans in the bin, Swindon took advantage with Charlie Grabe converting his own try, but Bicester replied when Peter Tarrega went over.

However, it was Swindon who led 15-12 at the break as Kalum House crossed.

Bicester retook the lead 11 minutes from time when Craig Smith crossed and Hampton added the extras.

But their advantage was wiped out when Jack Kimber dotted down and Grabe converted.

Wallingford beat Marlow 18-10.