DESPITE one of the worst matches for a number of seasons, the finale of the Acomb Tackle-backed York and District Winter League produced some memorable performances to top another excellent series.

A changeable week of sub-zero temperatures and heavy rain saw the 90-strong field facing the Ouse below York carrying a metre of chilled floodwater, which dulled the fish's appetites.

Nearly half the field failed to trouble the scalesmen and only a dozen anglers managed to top a pound.

Don Murray headed the individual standings with a brace of bream from the top end of the Bridge Field section at Bishopthorpe.

His two fish net of 6lb 10oz fell to feeder and worm and nearly doubled the next best weight.

Despite this his Tang Hall Match Group team could only manage second place on the day as the rest of his six-man team toiled to add 10oz to his winning bag.

Runner-up Jim Carter was also in the Bridge Field where he netted a bream and a skimmer for his weight of 3lb 14oz. The remainder of the top six were: Steve Snaith 2-8-0, Dave Hardy 1-11-0, Mick Potter 1-10-0 and Dave McMillan 1-9-0.

Barlby Village Stores were victorious with 8lb 6oz and the win was enough to edge them in front of Waterline Wibsey, who slipped to third place overall.

Another top-ten finish saw Phil Austin take the individual title with a remarkable exhibition of consistency.

His winning total of 75 points saw him add points in every round. Tony Layfield was some way adrift in second place with 53 points.

The same venue hosts this weekend's only match booking. Anglers competing in Sunday's Tadcaster Tower Rose Bowl will be hoping for a better return for their endeavours. After a week of snow and arctic winds one suspects that bites will be at a premium.

With the coarse season drawing to a close many anglers will be turning their thoughts towards a close season campaign on their favoured commercial venue.

Kevin Whincup says that there are still a few places left for the Spring Series at his Carpvale fishery. The league begins on Sunday, March 19, and is sponsored by Bob-Co Tackle. To reserve a place call Whincup on 01904 738249.

Updated: 10:55 Friday, March 03, 2006