BANBURY made history by securing the league and cup double for the first time with a 29-24 victory over Pinley.

Just over a fortnight after winning the Oxfordshire Cup, the Bulls clinched the Midlands 2 West (South) title with a game to spare.

Banbury were forced to show the depth of their squad with several players out injured, but that did not stop them in their tracks.

George Grieve crossed for the first try, with Sam Stoop adding the extras.

They added to their lead immediately as Grieve went over again for his fourth try in two matches to make it 12-0.

Pinley’s kicking tactic was not working and James Page muscled through to crash over. Stoop converted.

The visitors became more physical, leading to yellow cards for two of their players and Banbury’s Adam Walsh.

That did not stop Bulls securing the bonus point as Carl Daniels went over.

Pinley kicked a penalty as Banbury led 24-3 at the break.

Joe Mills had a score disallowed at the start of the second half for a knock-on, but Banbury’s top try-scorer made it 23 from 20 games to increase the lead to 26 points.

Pinley put in a spirited comeback, adding 21 points in 20 minutes, but Banbury held their nerve to secure the win and the title.