OLD Malton have sent out a clear message that they will be the team to beat again in the race for the Leeper Hare York and District Football League premier division one title.

The champions cruised to a 5-0 win at New Earswick with all the goals coming in the second half. On target were Darren Walker (2), Mickey Drew, Phil Hill and Paul Boyes.

Boroughbridge, who lost their crown to Old Malton last season, edged out Bishopthorpe 1-0 with a tenth minute goal by defender Mark Waddington for their second win in four days following Wednesday's 4-1 victory over Crayke.

Waddington had also been on target in that win over Crayke with the other Boroughbridge goals coming from Darren Perry (2) and Nick Gill. Crayke's goal was a solo effort from Micky Gosling.

Dringhouses proved too quick and powerful for home side Riccall on their way to a 4-0 win.

They took just four minutes to open their account, Mark Rawcliffe netting with a low drive.

Mark Scoreby chipped in the second and Riccall goalkeeper Mark Sanderson brought off a string of great saves before Dringhouses missed the chance to make it 3-0 from the penalty spot.

It made little difference as John Lake eventually got the third and Andy Barkway completed the scoring from the spot. Pick of the Riccall line-up were Hollis Bills and Matt Williams.

Pete Sinclair scored in the last minute to give Nestle Rowntree a 2-1 victory over Rufforth. John Alcock had put Rowntree ahead from the spot but Paul Moss netted the equaliser and Rufforth looked like getting a point until Sinclair's last-gasp effort.

Once Huntington got their noses in front just before half-time at Wigginton Grasshoppers there was no looking back.

Paul Noon netted on 41 minutes and Paul Pemberton's well placed header made it 2-0 before seeing another effort hit the woodwork.

Pat Noon completed the scoring after 80 minutes with a great shot.

Pocklington had to work hard to overcome visitors Kartiers 3-1.

The Selby side opened the scoring through Neil Taylor and they hung on to their lead for about an hour before Pocklington levelled through Rich Millett's direct free-kick. Pock went on to claim the points with a couple of well taken goals by Rich Swain.

Updated: 12:34 Monday, September 03, 2001