Trio re-sign with Oxford

Ruairi Lynch, Valu Bentley and Michael Crabtree have all committed to Oxford ahead of the 2014 season.

Lynch, 26, made one appearance for Oxford last season when he was in the squad for the club’s first ever professional game against Gloucestershire.

Previously the Dublin-born back-rower had played for Oxford Cavaliers and Brookes Bulls.

Bentley, 31, is a much more experienced player, having enjoyed spells in France as well as with fellow Championship One clubs Gateshead and Oldham.

As the club’s first-choice loose forward, New Zealand-born Bentley was an integral member of the team last year, making 14 appearances.

He was also the first Oxford player to score a try at Iffley Road when he went over against South Wales.

Crabtree, 22, made his Oxford debut in the Challenge Cup defeat to Halifax last year and has since gone on to represent Ireland A.

A winger or full-back Crabtree has cross-code experience having previously played rugby union for Esher RFC.