WALKER Farrimond Super League reigning champions Great Harwood moved up into third place in the division following a crushing 5-1 win over neighbours Alexandra.
Since the early season setback at St Annes, the Lowerfold men have been in sparkling form and look determined to retain the title.
A disappointed Alex team were swept aside all too easily and in the end had to thank newcomer Peter Renwick for a solitary consolation 21-15.
Stuart Gall 21-9 and Glyn Dodd 21-11, won without being seriously challenged, while Ray Turner 21-14 and Malcolm Wensley 21-16 also had matters under control with points to spare.
The highlight of the contest was the top spot clash between home captain Tony Dobson and David Hoyle who together provided a cracking contest.
There was little to choose between them in the early stages, but when Tony hit a perfect length on his favourite greenside mark, it proved the difference as he drew clear to win 21-17.
Stacksteads team Rose N'Bowl recorded their second consecutive victory when they defeated visitors St Annes 4-2.
Three games were very close affairs and only a shade of luck prevented the homesters from a clean sweep success.
Frank Herbert 21-9 and Chris Livesey 21-7 were outstanding as they romped home very easily.
Brian Varley also had a solid success 21-16 before Jim Melling sneaked home by the narrowest of margins 21-20 to seal the outcome.
Geoff Alderson and Peter Connolly were the two unfortunate losers, both by the same 21-19 margin to Terry Wood and Hugh Hornby respectively.
After what can only be described as a disastrous start to the season, Rose N'Bowl have achieved mid-table respectability and have a platform to launch a challenge on the leading teams.
If they are to contest the title chasers they must make an impact on their trip to Alexandra this weekend.
After a poor start to the campaign, Witton almost hit rock bottom when they were defeated 5-1 by Brownedge on home turf.
Unfortunately, they met Brownedge on a high and in top form and on the day were outplayed.
At least Brian Hoole, who played confidently, saved a whitewash with his deserved 21-18 win.
John Birkett also showed resistance, but in the end was overcome 21-18.
There's no doubt league leaders Brownedge are a top team and in my book favourites for the title this year.
Results: Frenchwood 5 Birches 1; Great Harwood 5 Alexandra 1; Lostock Hall 3 Farington 3; Norden 6 Southport 0; Rose N'Bowl 4 St Annes 2; Witton 1 Brownedge 5.
Fixtures for Sunday (11am): Alexandra v Rose N'Bowl; Brownedge v St Annes; Farington v Norden; Southport v Great Harwood; Birches v Lostock Hall; Witton v Frenchwood.
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