IN one week Bert Keech managed wins over the top two teams in the York area, beating Haxby Road in the league and then comprehensively defeating Holgate 100-41 in the Williamson Cup Final at Falconer Street.

Paul Mooring's rink led the way winning by 36 shots, which proved too much for Holgate despite a spirited 13-shot win by Phil Emmerson's squad.

Railway Institute teams met in the Fellowship final on Bert Keech green and the amateurs of division one won 101-74 to demonstrate to Corinthians who are leaders of division two, that they will have to improve if they are to be as successful next season in a higher league.

In division one of the Persimmon Homes Ideal Standard Bowls League, Hull Road Park beat Haxby Road 6-1 in a re-arranged fixture, then defeated Holgate by the same score leaving Haxby Road 8 points clear of Holgate, who have a game in hand.

As a result of these setbacks for the top two outfits, RI Amateurs have now come into contention. And with a visit to Holgate included in their remaining fixtures, they could have a major influence in the title race.

Victories over Osbaldwick lifted Dringhouses out of the relegation zone leaving Osbaldwick, Burnholme and West Park to fight it out.

The last match of the season between Osbaldwick and West Park could be the deciding game.

Promotion from division two is already guaranteed for RI Corinthians and games in hand make Harrogate favourites to pip Clifton and Stamford Bridge for the second place.

Selby, in their first year in the York League, are the rightful champions of division three, leaving Minster to have to take full advantage of their game in hand to beat Holgate WMC for second place.

The semi finals of the Persimmon Homes-Ideal Standard Bowls competitions will take place on:

Fours - Friday, August 8 at Clarence Gardens. Start 6.30pm: J Caulfield v B Cooper, M Bulmer v J Emmerson.

Pairs - Sunday, August 10 at Clarence Gardens. Start 2pm: P Durkin v D Preece, A Lewis v G Dalby.

Triples - Friday, August 15 at West Park. Start 6.30pm: L Jackson v A Dunbar, G Bunce v J Stroughair or T Hague.

Singles - Tuesday, August 19 at West Park: R Tiplady v A J Dalby, K Lippett v G Eagles.

Consolation Trophy - D Preece v M Robertson, S Gill v A Brooks.

Updated: 09:52 Thursday, August 07, 2003