BUBWITH recorded an important nine-run victory over Woodhouse Grange in the top of the table Foss Evening Cricket League clash which puts them joint top with Aldby Park with three games left to play.

Edward Smith played an impressive innings of 75, which included seven fours and three sixes, as Bubwith reached 112-7. S Anderson (3-25) and Ashley Quinn (3-32) were the successful bowlers for Grange.

Keen fielding and accurate bowling helped restrict Grange's reply to 103-2 with Howard Johnson unbeaten on 45.

Bubwith now face two games against the bottom clubs before their final game at Aldby Park which could decide the championship.

Richard Bowling (33) and Tom Quinn (31) were largely instrumental in Heworth totalling 112-9. This was never enough for the strong Aldby batting line-up as Andy Milner (38), Pete Aconley (34no) and Paul Milner (27no) guided their team to a nine wicket success.

Barmby Moor slipped to a seven wicket defeat against Pocklington which virtually condemns them to the second division next season. Mike Newhouse was the backbone of the innings with an unbeaten 51 as Barmby Moor reached 107-3.

Kevin Hinch (37no) steered Pocklington to victory with good support coming from Martin Nesom (24) and Mike Murray (23).

Stamford Bridge were unable to raise a team and conceded to Yapham.

In division two, Londesborough Park continued their progress up the table with a three-run defeat over Melbourne.

Simon Dodd top-scored with 24 out of his side's 63-5. Thomas Williamson with 3-0 sealed victory for Park.

Thixendale enjoyed success in their game with Middleton as they reached 114-6 despite several rain interruptions. Then Steve Anstey (3-27) saw Middleton dismissed for 91.

Updated: 11:50 Wednesday, July 17, 2002