A COMPREHENSIVE 7-1 victory for Bert Keech over Haxby Road, the leaders of division one of the Persimmon Homes Ideal Standard Bowls League, leaves Haxby only half-a-point in front of Holgate.

That now means that it is very likely that the rearranged game at the end of the season between the two clubs will decide the title.

Barry Cooper's rink scored five shots on their last end against Dunnington to tie the aggregate and give Osbaldwick four

valuable points in the relegation battle

with Dringhouses and West Park.

Only two-and-a-half points now separate the three teams.

In division two, Harrogate became serious contenders for promotion with a 7-1 win at home to Stamford Bridge, who will drop out of the race if they lose a rearranged game with Clifton this week.

At the other end of the table, Stewart's visit to Poppleton on August 6 could decide who joins Copmanthorpe, now 16 points adrift, in relegation.

Selby beat off nearest rivals Minster 7-1 and with four games to play are only ten points

off making the division three title a

certainty.

It is the first year Selby have played in the York Leagues and their participation in the competitions has been most welcome.

How far they will go in division two should they get there next year will be watched with interest by all leading clubs.

The cup semi-finals provided no surprises with Holgate and Bert Keech proceeding to the Williamson Cup final.

RI Amateurs will meet RI Corinthians in the Fellowship Cup.

Corinthians beat Poppleton Road WMC, who were not able to repeat the form of their shock win over Haxby Road, in the Marshal Shield.

Ralph Tiplady (Hull Road Park) beat Tony Thornton (RI Corinthians) in the

singles and is the only one of last year's champions still on course to defend their titles.

Mick Birkley (Holgate) lost in the pairs to Dave Preece (RI Corinthians) and Jim Dalby's four (Poppleton Road WMC) lost to John Emmerson (Holgate).

Phil Reeves' defence of the triples title ended in the first round.

Updated: 10:05 Thursday, July 24, 2003