York 'A' experienced a nail-biting climax to their latest Woodhouse Chess Cup fixture against a strong Sheffield 'A' team.

York were leading 5-4 with just the board four game remaining.

In a dramatic finale York's Alistair Cargill kept his nerve and with seconds remaining secured a draw in a far from easy rook and pawn endgame to keep alive York's chance of winning the Woodhouse Cup.

Peter Cloudsdale, Don Baldwin, Tony Slinger, Richard Palliser and the in-form David Adams all won.

York 'B' were given a boost at the start of their match with Leeds when Leeds defaulted the bottom two boards.

But York weren't able to fully capitalise and were slightly disappointed to only gain a draw.

Patrick Gower, Herbert Lockwood and Eric Key all drew and the match hinged on the last two games. Barry Marshall was unfortunate to lose on top board, but Laurence Cornhill, by agreeing a draw in the last game to finish, ensured York drew the match.

York 'C' beat Dewsbury 4-3 as York's upper boards did the damage and won three of the four available points on boards one to four. Richard Hardy, Owen Robson and John Blades all won while David Findlay, Norman Andrews and Mick Beavers all drew.

York 'D' 4-4 with Rose Forgrove

'C' ensuring none of the York teams lost.

Graham Marshall needed to win the last game to give York a share of the spoils.

York had the worst possible start when one of their players failed to turn up and hence defaulted the board. This was made worse as there were other York players on standby who could have stepped in if notice had been given and the teams juggled round.

Despite this early setback York battled back in commendable fashion and gained wins from G Smith, S Liddle and Marshall. Junior players Arjuna Prithivaraz and Chris Sommerville both drew.

One of York's most flamboyant players, Eric Key is giving a simultaneous display at York Bridge Club, Holgate Road, on Sunday, February 18.

He is prepared to take on anybody who is ungraded or has a grade less than 130. If you would like to try your luck then call him on 01904 426728. The entry fee is £2 and there are small prizes for any winners.

Updated: 12:12 Thursday, January 18, 2001