OXFORD Saints suffered their second pre-season defeat ahead of their Southern Conference campaign when going down 49-21 against Leicester Falcons at Tilsley Park, Abingdon.

With both teams having gained promotion to Division 1 this summer, it was expected to be a good test for Saints, following their 42-0 defeat by Farnham Knights.

Oxford’s former quarterback Destin Maulding was back in the US, so Marcus Alphonso was named starter in his first season in senior football.

However, Falcons, inspired by American quarterback Troy Lee, who got off to a flying start racing into a 21-6 half-time lead.

Saints’ only touchdown came from veteran James Walter, who ran in from from eight yards.

Falcons stretched their lead to 41-6 before Saints offered some late resistance.

Walter claimed his second score, before Antonios Athanasiou charged through for a 35-yard touchdown.

The extra points were kicked by rookie Dean Fuller.

Saints open their Southern Central Division 1 programme against Sussex Thunder at Tilsley Park on Sunday April 16.