ALAN Hancock is urging Oxford Harlequins to do everything in their power to remain unbeaten at home this season after his side had a narrow escape against Reading.

Quins have not lost a game at Marston Ferry Road in South West 1 East this campaign, winning seven and drawing once.

But they came within seconds of losing that record against the Berkshire side on Saturday when they needed fly half Sam Watkinson to kick an 80th-minute penalty to secure a 16-15 victory.

Head of rugby Hancock believes Quins’ run is down to the leadership, particularly of captain Allan Purchase and vice Jack Robinson, on and off the field, as well as stand-out fitness levels.

The challenge now is to maintain the run over the next three months.

Hancock is determined for his players to mark their first season back at Marston Ferry Road in seven years with an unbeaten record.

He said: “It is superb to be here and whatever happens we have to maintain that unbeaten history in the first season after being away and coming back.

“We are going to take it by the horns.”