Quins' 33-3 win over Cleve was their first game since 11 December

Oxford Harlequins captain Simon Chadbone believes his side have come back from their winter break a much stronger side.

Quins defeated Cleve 33-3 on Saturday, in their first game since 11 December, to go ninth in the National League Three South West.

Chadbone, 32, told BBC Oxford: "We have a stronger team and we're more confident in our own abilities.

"We put a marker down and want to push on towards the top of the table."

Chadbone added: "It was our first game in four weeks, so we were up for it and raring to go.

Everyone is now focussed on the task in hand and want to deliver good performances and put teams to the sword a bit Oxford Harlequins captain Simon Chadbone

"It was a reasonable result and we defended well. We've had games this season where we have been dominant and then lost by just a few points.

"But everyone is now focussed on the task in hand and want to deliver good performances and put teams to the sword a bit."

Full-back Hugh Jones and flanker Tim Knapp made welcome returns to the Oxfordshire side on Saturday after recovering from injuries, and Chadbone admits he is glad to have his team-mates back.

"Both players are characters in the changing room so it was a boost," Chadbone continued.

"It definitely gives the side confidence to see them back. Tim Knapp came off the bench and made an impact.

"We are still missing Pete Boulton with a broken arm and he'll be out for most of the season, but other than we have a fairly strong team."

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