LAST-MINUTE anguish was suffered by hosts Marcia as they neared toppling York Sunday Morning Football League leaders Volunteer Arms.

The Bishopthorpe venue staged the day's major clash and it lived up to its big billing, especially for second-placed Marcia, who were defending the top-flight's sole undefeated record.

After a goal-less first half former Leeds United and Darlington midfielder Mark Ford broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal.

With time running out Volunteers' manager John Raynor went for broke by hauling a defender off and introducing Phil O'Reilly to put three up front.

The bold move paid dividends with just a minute to go when O'Reilly netted the equaliser to keep Arms' title quest on track.

Hounds took advantage of their fellow title hopefuls' dropped points to move level at the top after they took the spoils in a 2-1 win at local rivals Thorpe United.

Rollinson gave them the lead and Collier made it 2-0 before the break.

The second half saw Thorpe pull one back through Singleton, but despite constant pressure they could not break through the stubborn Hounds' defence.

Charlie Bond and Anthony Andrews put Pocklington 2-0 up at home to Blacksmiths Arms but the visitors rallied in the second period to take a point with goals from Jon James and Darren Heels.

Lanaghan put Selby in front at home to Ainsty Panthers after only six minutes.

Barron levelled for Ainsty before half-time and they then dominated the second period with goals from Reid, Fletcher and Willoughby. Wayne Brook scored Selby's late consolation.

A goal after just ten seconds set Acomb WMC on their way to a 6-0 triumph over Edward VII.

That nudged them to within six points of division two leaders Shipton, who were held to a 3-3 draw at Hemingbrough, Noon, Fratson and Blake the scorers.

Nestl Flag continued their title pursuit with a 3-1 win at home to Deramore Arms. Crangle fired Deramore in front only for Laidlaw to level before the break. Laidlaw struck his second early in the second period and Dyson put the game out of Deramore's reach with a fine strike.

Updated: 11:15 Friday, February 04, 2005