TOP and bottom issues dominated the John Smith's Sunday Morning League first division duel between Derwent United and Ainsty Panthers.

United's 1-0 win courtesy of a strike from Bradshaw ensured their top-flight status, while Ainsty Panthers' title aspirations virtually died at the same time.

Kevin Jackson and Joe Gaughan got the goals as Volunteer Arms won 2-0 at home to Selby Olympia WMC, but there was anguish for Acomb WMC and New Earswick, who have both been relegated.

Wigginton GH won the division two title without kicking a ball as Thorpe United went down to a single Jamie Rank goal at home to Bridge Colts.

Colts currently lie in the second promotion spot having completed their fixtures and must now await the outcome of the game between Blacksmiths Arms and Thorpe after Blacksmiths romped to a 6-1 win over York Nomads, Gary Newton bagging a treble.

Gary Young scored two and Ben Bayley the other as Burnholme SC looked to make up for the semi-final disappointment by grabbing the second promotion spot with a 3-1 win over Turpin FC. Richard Colley scored for Turpin.

The surprise result of the day came at Barlby where the hosts went down 5-1 to a rejuvenated Real Way Station side who might just sneak into the division four promotion spot themselves.

Real's goals came from Dodgson (2), Collier, Simpson and Shooter with Hughes netting a consolation for Barlby.

Hambleton took full advantage to regain top spot with a 7-0 hammering of eight-man Beeswing, Croad netting a treble.

The Plough's recent run of solid form came to an abrupt end with a 5-1 defeat at the hands of Heworth who secured their own safety at the same time, Collins scoring a hat-trick.

Dan Edmondson was the star as he struck four times in Shoulder of Mutton's 5-2 defeat of one-time title challengers Copmanthorpe.

The only game in division five saw Burton Stone lose further ground in their attempt to avoid the drop when they went down 3-1 at home to Castle Howard Ox, Henry Smith with the solitary Stone goal.

Albion Vaults moved into the division six promotion positions for the first time with a 7-2 win at bottom club Pocklington Rangers, Lee Ward scoring four of the goals.

Meanwhile, Mark Grewer notched his 33rd goal of the season with a brace as F1 Racing won 3-0 at home to second-placed Poppleton LN, Daz Glynn getting the other.

Hodson and Hird were the scorers as Firkin 103 won 2-0 at Edinburgh Arms.

Updated: 12:09 Friday, April 02, 2004