Wigginton Grasshoppers' tenure in the top division of York John Smith's Sunday Morning Football League is hanging by a thread after they handed belated Christmas presents to Severus.

John Lake was the main benefactor as he hit a hat-trick in the 5-1 win. Mark Woodward and an own goal accounted for the others, with Jamie Seal netting Wigginton's consolation from a free-kick.

Two goals inside the first ten minutes from Colin Rayner and Lee Knaggs gave Volunteer Arms a flying start at Thorpe United. Garner pulled one back in the first minute of the second period but despite constant pressure the Volunteer defence held firm to win 2-1.

Shipton have opened up a ten-point lead at the top of division two after their latest victory - a 3-1 home win over neighbours Haxby Lions.

Steve Blake opened the scoring followed by a second for West before the break. West then added his second in the second half before Coverdale pulled one back for the visitors.

With Acomb WMC's game at Burnholme called off Acomb SC closed the gap on second spot with a 6-3 win at Edward VII, Beech and Hill both scoring twice.

Nestl Flag fell behind to a Bradley strike at York Nomads but a Steve Kendall double and one each for Pears, Dyson and Laidlaw saw them take all three points with a 5-1 win.

An early injury to veteran striker Broadbent, after he had put Bishopthorpe in front, worked in their favour as Joe Turner turned from defender to star striker with a four-goal salvo in a 6-1 win over division three rivals Copmanthorpe.

Moore got the other goal, with Dave Robinson netting the consolation for Copmanthorpe. The victory put Bishopthorpe eight points clear of The Plough, who had no game.

Hambleton moved up to third as Dunne (2), Croad and Welford helped them to a 6-1 win over Beeswing. whose Norman was on the mark.

Paul Hughes netted twice for Barlby in their 3-2 win at home to Real Way Station, and Heworth won 6-2 against The Five Lions.

Thomas's Hotel continue to lead the way in division five, goals from Finch, Williams, Scott and Cassidy giving them a 4-0 victory over Holgate WMC.

Raskelf have emerged as serious title contenders after their good string of results continued with a 12-2 demolition of Pocklington Rangers. Andy Metcalfe was once more on song as he notched four to achieve his sixth hat-trick of the season.

Two goals in added time gave Fulford a 3-2 win over Cawood. Wanderers beat Quaker Wood 4-3 and Joe Vaughan hit a treble as Edinburgh Arms beat Wrights Sports Bar 4-2.

Updated: 11:10 Friday, January 07, 2005