GOLDEN Slipper, winners of the summer York John Smith's Ladies Darts League division two, began the winter season with the same intent that saw them finish with 15 wins out of 16 earlier in the year.

The team showed resilience to stay in the game at Tramways, captain Doreen Johnstone keeping Slipper in the hunt with a 117, and were finally rewarded when Ann Parkyn snatched a hard-fought 7-4 victory.

Leeman 'B' and Saddle Inn played out an entertaining contest that saw the teams go into the pairs neck and neck. But Leeman ultimately made home advantage count and emerged as 8-3 winners.

A lone-hand pairs from Debbie Witts bagged Leeman 'A' an 8-3 victory at Burton Stone, while a depleted Clifton Hotel side fell to a 9-2 loss at home to Puss 'n' Boots, for whom Lisa Russell closed with a 105.

Division one champions Fulfordgate were also on target again with a comfortable 8-3 victory over visitors Marcia.

The Bishopthorpe team took an early lead but a 76 check-out from Muriel Britton and a 20-dart pairs leg from Cara and Michelle Britton ensured the points stayed at home.

Sue Clark hit 115 and 100 for Severus 'A' but it turned out to be a heavy 9-2 defeat against their 'B' team. The victory was secured for Severus 'B' by the Teasdale/Mountain pair.

Priory and Edinburgh were level going into the pairs but the match was sealed for the home side 7-4 thanks to the Thompson/Anderson duo.