Reigning Yorkshire League champions York Indoor Bowls Club suffered a poor 8-2 aggregate points defeat after narrowly losing 75-72 to North Cave.

That put Cave on top with York dropping down to third to leave the league wide open.

With just two games to play, a mere three points separate the leading four teams.

The only winning rink was Linda Harrison’s who were at home.

Level at 13-13 with four ends to play, they scored six on the last for a 26-14 victory.

Carol Instone’s team won four of the last five ends but fell 16-13.

Away, Sheila Turpin’s side had a 17-16 advantage after 17 ends but lost 24-18. While Melanie Brooke’s team won three of the last four ends, it did not staunch a 21-15 reverse.

In the ‘B’ League, New Earswick were encouraged as they beat leaders Hornsea 86-75 to collect six points to only trail the table-toppers by 12 but with a game in hand.

At home, Pat Walker’s side trailed 6-4 after seven ends before taking the lead on the next with a five. They stayed in front to confirm a comfortable 26-12 triumph.

Kath Sykes’ team got off to a great start leading 10-0 after only three ends. They completed an excellent performance with a five on the last end to triumph 28-15.

In Hornsea, Peggy Walker’s team played well to lead 16-12 with five ends to play. But they were unable to thwart a good finish by the hosts, who won 22-17.

Margaret Morgan’s team were also in a good position.

With just five ends to negotiate they only trailed 14-13. But that was the closest they came as they were vanquished 26-15.