BOOTHAM ‘A’ opened a two-point lead in the York Conservative Clubs’ Carlsberg UK Snooker League after beating their ‘B’ team 5-2 aided by three black-ball games.

Chris Dower needed the last three colours to start the win only for Matt Smith and Lional Barnes to put the ‘B’ ranks ahead.

Mark Darley, John Darley, Simon Robinson and Colin Robinson countered to seal victory.

Fulford ‘A’ remain second despite a surprise 4-3 loss to Heworth ‘B’, who rallied from an initial loss to Mark Robson (46 bk), through Mark Calpin, Vic Gamble and Tim Hart (64 bk).

Justin Morris clawed a game back only for Huw Faircliffe to seal the win before Tim Lister took Fulford’s third point.

Despite a 6-1 thrashing by Malton ‘A’, Fulford ‘B’ hold onto third spot.

Dominic Spiteri, Richard Williamson (20 bk), Simon Weatherill (43 bk), Romain Reeves and Roger Ward secured the win before Nigel Smith opened Fulford’s account. Phil Hart completed the rout.

Heworth edged nearer to retaining the Slater Cup snooker pairs title with a 5-2 win over Fulford not decided until the last game.

They were 3-2 ahead with a 29 aggregate then R Walker and P Jefferson sealed the aggregate.

Bootham hopes of pressurising the leaders faded as Acomb triumphed 6-1 for their first win of the season.

They led 4-0 before Bootham replied and were gifted the last frame when a Bootham player went in off the black.