OXFORD City Stars set pulses racing with two closely-fought encounters in 24 hours.

First, Dean Birrell’s side almost staged an incredible comeback to draw with leaders Streatham, only to lose 5-4.

They then visited high-flying Invicta Dynamos and held on to win a tense contest 2-1.

It leaves Stars eighth in the table, but it was a much more encouraging weekend than the previous Saturday’s 6-1 defeat at Chelmsford Chieftains.

Streatham were heavy favourites at Oxpens and showed their class with three quick goals early in the first period.

Joe Edwards pulled one back for Stars, but the visitors struck again before the break.

The hosts had a mountain to climb, yet they responded excellently.

Edwards and Theo Bundock slashed the deficit to just one goal by the end of the second period and it was all to play for in the final 20 minutes.

Streatham scored early to make it 5-3 and it proved decisive, despite Edwards completing his hat-trick to set up a grand finale.

There were far fewer goals the next day in Kent, as a lone Invicta strike separated the sides at the end of the first period.

Jake Williams restored parity midway through the match, before Edwards made the difference 16 minutes from time.