THE race for this season's league crown is hotting up, writes Garry Carter.

Wigginton put themselves back in the frame to retain their title after a 2-1 home win over leaders Nestl Rowntree.

Adam Wash broke the deadlock with a cool finish after some good work by Paul Wilson. Gavin Dickenson wrapped up the points with a second-half strike. Kevin Graham scored a consolation ten seconds from time.

Severus WMC moved back to the top with a 5-3 win over Pack of Cards - Moss (3), Jones and Woodward the scorers. Ducey, Crake and Davidson replied.

Marcia took full advantage of a strong wind in the first half to give themselves a 4-1 half-time lead against Volunteers through goals from Smith, Allison, Kettlewell and O'Brian.

Volunteers rallied to reduce the deficit to a single-goal courtesy of strikes from Carter and Bond. But Fitzmaurice wrapped up the points with a late fifth.

Jubilee missed the chance to go top of division two when they lost to a single strike Derwent United's Cooke.

Derwent Arms went 3-0 up early in the second half against Blacksmiths Arms through Anthony Luck, James Luck and Mark Triffitt. Three goals in quick time from Mike Heels (2) and Mike Hadden levelled matters but Derwent Arms added further goals from Triffitt and Barker.

Carmody gave Riccall a first-half lead at Carlton but six goals in 15 second-half minutes from Parker (2), Edmondson (2), Jeffrey and Dower put the home side clear.

In division three Mark Broadbent hit a hat-trick for Bishopthorpe but it wasn't enough as two goals apiece for Dave Clark and Stewart Nicholl (both penalties) sealed a win for leaders Mount.

Goals from Ross, Gatenby and Kendal saw Nestl Flag turn round 3-0 to the good but BH Colts showed their resilience to take a point - Smith, N Rank and Mennell from the spot on target.

Copmanthorpe eased their relegation fears with a 4-1 win at Beeswing thanks to goals from Johanson (2), Robinson and Gilbertson.

Hemingbrough moved into second place in division four with a 6-3 win over Raskelf Rovers, Jackson scoring twice.

Black Bull continued their good run with a 4-2 win over Keystones courtesy of goals from Lindsey, Pink, Barrick and Ward. Holmes and Ferguson replied.

Gareth Sullivan hit seven goals as Volunteer Reserves trounced Knavesmire 14-1 in division five, Pat Gaughan and Paul Holtby weighing in with three goals apiece.

Leaders Opticare took a 3-0 lead at Wanderers through Lee Frank (2) and Wayne Haigh. But they were made to fight for victory after Michael Cammidge pulled two back for the home side.

Burnholme are still in title contention after a 4-0 win at Inland Revenue, Thomas scoring twice.

In division six Hambleton put some daylight between themselves and the rest with a hard-earned 3-2 win against Beefeater who led twice through Day and Lorrans. Reay, Dunne and Wilson scored for the leaders.

First York dealt a blow to Kings Arms' hopes with a fine 4-1 win thanks to a hat-trick from Ken Charman.

Northern Wall's good form continued with a 1-1 draw against promotion chasing London York, Howells being their marksman.

- Any teams wishing to join the John Smith's League for the 2002-3 season should contact Garry Carter on 01904 630593.

Updated: 11:46 Friday, February 08, 2002