Ahead of the AIB League season start, there were encouraging signs for UL Bohemians last Friday as they earned a 26-5 win over Oxford University in an Iffley Road friendly.

Fresh from winning their first Limerick Charity Cup since 2000 earlier this month, Bohs turned in a very disciplined performance against the Oxford Blues in what is hoped to be an annual fixture in years to come.

Fly half Fergal Lawlor operated well behind a dominant pack and the former Ireland Schools international converted three first half penalties to hand the visitors a 9-5 lead at the break.

Oxford prop Sean Brophy scored a try just before the interval to keep the English hosts in contention but Bohs dictated the second half's action. Tries from replacement winger Martin McPhail and number 8 James O'Neill, which were both converted by Lawlor, followed for Mike Tewkesbury's side.

Lawlor, who has also gained Munster Under-21 recognition, kicked a fourth penalty to complete a personal haul of 16 points and crown an excellent night for the Limerick men.

Bohs travel to Temple Hill this Saturday to take on Cork Constitution in their Division One opener. The match doubles as a qualifier for the latter stages of the ODM Munster Senior Cup.