League still in the balance

THE most intriguing battle for the S and D League title in years is still far from resolved.

With games now threatening to go into October, several clubs still have games in hand despite the dry summer.

George and Dragon wrapped up their campaign with a disappointing 9-6 loss at Woodley Sports.

John Rothwell (21-5) ensured the aggregate was always going the way of Mike Coram’s team who have survived the drop.

That result gave Terry Gale’s Houldsworth every chance of closing the gap down on Dragon.

In another twist though, Houldsworth’s poor form continued as they came unstuck away at Victoria. Only Lee Johnstone and father Tommy were in top form, posting winning cards to the halfway mark.

Victoria secured a cosy seven winners and the aggregate to confirm a solid enough season for themselves in the top flight. The combination of results lately has seen Grapes Hotel enter the title race with a strong finish. The latest result saw them pick up a massive 13.5 points haul on the road at Hadfield. Mike Gee (21-7) and Ben Gloag (21-7) were the big hitters.

George and Dragon finished their season 24 points clear of Houldsworth and 24.5 points clear of Grapes.

In a dramatic twist both Houldsworth and Grapes have two games in hand with 31 points on the table for both.

One thing is for sure – Dragon will be looking over their shoulder now to see when these remaining fixtures are played.

In the second division a similar scenario has ensued where by Nursery need seven winners and the aggregate at Friendship to win the title. Houldsworth (2) have finished and will await their fate when the outstanding fixture is played.

Finally, Love Lane winter bowls greens fire into life with the championship opener on October 14th.