WORCESTERSHIRE Saints' hopes of starting their season in style were dashed by hat-trick hero Andre Bam as they crashed to a 24-12 defeat at home to Oxford Cavaliers.

The TotalRL.com Rugby League Conference South West Division clash proved a scrappy affair but it was Oxford who adapted better to the wet and windy conditions to emerge comfortable winners.

Saints had a certain degree of confidence going into the match, having twice defeated the Cavaliers last season, but at their new Kings Norton Rugby Club headquarters, they failed to cope with man-of-the-match Bam's display.

Impressive

The stand-off was in impressive form, bagging a sparkling hat-trick of tries either side of half time.

Bryan Graham added a fourth and Adam White rounded off the scoring with four goals for Oxford.

The visitors took an early lead with a 30 metre penalty from White but Saints replied with a try from Mark Smith.

However the Cavaliers then assumed control of the half and increased their lead with two further tries from Bam, with Graham added a third on the stroke of halftime. Oxford's half-time lead of 18-4 was stretched when Bam completed his hat-trick try with the first attack.

At this point the visitors were threatening to run away with the game but Saints restored some pride when Chris Nelson and Mitchell Ferris scored within the space of three minutes. Andrew Jenkinson, however, was unable to add the extra points.

Despite some hard work from the Worcester forwards, notably prop Grant Fraser, who was named man-of-the-match for the home team, Saints failed to breakdown a stubborn Oxford.

Next Sunday promises to be another stiff test for Worcester who visit title favourites Gloucester Warriors at Chosen Hill RUFC, Churchdown, (2.30).

Saints have not beaten Gloucester for five years. Gloucester started their season in a confident manner scoring 66 points away at Bristol Sonics.