YORK Squash Club's spell at the top of the Yorkshire League premier division was brought to a swift end as they were replaced by IT Sports Wigginton.

While York were suffering a 4-1 defeat against a star-studded Chapel Allerton line-up, Wigginton were enjoying a sensational 4-1 victory over Pontefract to move top.

A huge crowd witnessed the heroics of Wigginton, with some great squash from both sides.

Ian Tooms lost 3-2 to Chris Donnolan after a mammoth match lasting an hour and 15 minutes, but Matt Lowry beat Craig Smith to pull the scores level.

Derbyshire county player Kevin Waite was outstanding as he beat Alan Norish, at the number three, and Duncan Walsh ensured the win with his victory against England junior Lawrence De La Saux.

England international Paul Hardgreaves completed a good night's work when he breezed past Paul Hornsby.

While Wigginton celebrated going top, York showed good battling qualities against title-favourites Chapel Allerton.

York No1 Adam Toes lost three close games to England No 18 Hadrian Stiff, while Mark Blowers was beaten in straight games by Joey Barrington, the 21-year-old son of former world champion Johah.

York's only victory came from teenager George Bannister.

York match scores: Adam Toes lost to Hadrian Stiff 15-17, 11-15, 13-15; Mark Blowers lost to Joey Barrington 3-15, 12-15, 7-15; Paul Spencer lost to Chris Ryder 10-15, 6-15, 10-15; Jamie Hopwood lost Neil McKinnon 15-12, 12-15, 3-15, 15-13, 8-15; George Bannister beat Tom Ellis 15-9, 15-17, 15-14, 15-12.

Updated: 10:36 Saturday, October 20, 2001