MARCIA came from a goal down at champions Severus to justify their own claim as John Smith's York Sunday Morning League division one title contenders with their seventh consecutive league victory, writes Garry Carter.

Jones had given the home side a 1-0 half time advantage but Purdy equalised just after the break and with only a minute remaining Carl Young popped up to steal the points.

Thompson, Bond, Gaughan, Jackson and Lee all hit the net as Volunteer moved into second place with a 5-2 win over Pack of Cards for whom Carrington and Nelson were on the mark.

Matthews scored twice as Hounds won a close fought game at Ainsty 2-1 with Dave Hyde scoring from the spot for the home side.

In division two the focus was at the bottom where a hat-trick from Wray helped Acomb SC to a 7-2 win over Carlton.

Two Neil Price goals earned Derwent Arms a point after they trailed to goals from Cadywold and Barker at FC Magnet.

Mick O'Donnell gave Nestl Flag the lead against unbeaten Wigginton GH and looked well in control. But they failed to turn that superiority into goals and despite a second from Simon Gatenby lost 3-2.

Fulford maintained their unbeaten record to move to within a point of the leaders with a 4-1 win over Old Grey Mare, Matthew Gomm scoring twice.

Barlby Athletic moved into second place in division five with a comfortable 4-1 win at Wanderers with Butler, Wilks, McNulty and Parker on target. Howells and Cutler both scored two as Northern Wall beat Enterprise 6-2.

In division six Bay Horse (Tadcaster) kept their promotion push going with a 4-1 win over F1 Racing.

Denton hit a hat-trick for Hazelwoods as they shared eight goals with Pickering Lettered Board and Black Swan beat hosts Kingsway Riders 5-1.

Updated: 10:31 Friday, January 24, 2003