POOL: Battle for promotion places is a fierce one (From Northwich Guardian)

Winner could take all when The Elms host Bowling Green B in Northwich and District League's second tier

12:30pm Monday 4th March 2013 in Sport By Andrew Simpson, Senior Sports Writer

THE Elms host Bowling Green B on Wednesday in a match that could decide who is promoted to the Northwich and District League’s top tier.

They occupy second and third place respectively in the Division Two table following the latest round of matches, separated by a three-point margin.

Bowling Green beat leaders Barn Owl C, for whom Matthew Whitehead claimed a maximum break, to complete a double over the favourites for first place.

Pickmere-based Elms edged Drum & Monkey by the odd frame the same night.

Elsewhere Blue Barrel B, defeated on their own table by fourth-placed Thatched Tavern, are almost certain to join Owley Wood C at a lower level next season.

They are nine points from safety with three matches left to play.

The race for promotion from Division Three is the closest in the competition, with fifth-placed The Lion only five points adrift of the summit.

Greenbank B, after a third defeat in their past four games, share top spot with Hartford A following the latter’s routine home success against Winnington Lodge.

Chapels A, conquerors of Nectar’s, are one point further back. Joe Illidge potted all eight balls from a single visit to the table for the Lostock outfit.

A seventh successive win for Slow & Easy keeps them in fourth position.

Champions Rudheath A, boosted by Jason Chester’s maximum, extended their lead to 15 points in the top flight as the hosts humbled lowly Hartford B.

Owley Wood A stay second after a narrow win at White Barn, allowing Castle Private A to close to within two points following their stroll against strugglers Blue Barrel A.

Rock-bottom Greenbank A recorded only a second league victory of the season, surprising their guests Barn Owl D, while there were wins too for Barn Owl B and Gladstone A.

This week's results, plus the latest tables and forthcoming fixtures, will be printed in this week's Northwich Guardian.