APPLETON Roebuck 2 are now odds-on for the division six crown in the Tyke Petroleum Men’s Tennis League.

Away to Wigginton 3, Appleton skipper Geoff Steel abdicated in favour of hot-shot Paul Harrison, who partnered experienced John Giles to 3-30.

All three Appleton pairs proved unbeatable against the previous trophy favourites. The 11 points Buck bagged after the unexpected 76-32 result, hauled them to parity with leaders Sutton-on-Derwent 2, but with a match in hand.

Cawood claimed the division seven title with a comprehensive 11-point win in their final match at home to Dunnington 2.

Cawood captain Tim Tillett ended the campaign with an unbeaten 3-22 partnering Luke Stead.

Rowntree Park’s pursuit of a first top-flight championship remained steadfast after a solid show against Copmanthorpe.

The outstanding men’s pair of the season, Steve Spaven and Sam Davies, reunited to take 32 games off the division one strugglers.

Sutton-on-Derwent edged closer to division two safety with a demolition of David Lloyd 2. Brothers Zak and Louis Los maxed for 24 games.

Starbeck 1 hit the ton to stake their claim to the division three trophy. More than 20 points from two matches included a near points-whitewash of their own second team.

Pocklington’s late escape continued with their second win in a row thanks to returning Huw Attwood, with 2½-24 in tandem with John Kaye.

The whole team ended the match unbeaten against relegation rivals Stamford Bridge, winning all but four drawn rubbers for a ten-point home win.