THE race to play in the Northwich and District League’s top tier next season took a twist when promotion favourites Hartford B lost on Wednesday.

They fell on their own table against clubmates Hartford A, a team that played at a lower level last season.

Hartford B’s lead at the Division Two summit remains healthy at nine points, though Greenbank A made the most of an opportunity to close the gap after easing to victory against Owley Wood C.

Castle Private were left to rue a missed chance though, slipping to third after a home reverse against Bowling Green B.

Owley Wood B conceded one frame to Slow & Easy, while Witton Chimes came a cropper against guests Iron Bridge.

There is no change at the top of Division One, where Rudheath matched the result of closest rivals Gladstone C.

The defending champions proved too strong for visiting Barn Owl C, while Adam Griffiths’ maximum break was a highlight of their challengers’ derby defeat of Gladstone A.

Elsewhere The Elms climbed from the bottom of the table after beating Barn Owl D, who cede third place in the table to Gladstone B following their victory at Barn Owl B.

Owley Wood A lost narrowly, by 4-3, at Green Dragon A.

In Division Three, both of the leading sides lost to leave the top four teams separated by just seven points.

Chapels continue to occupy first place despite losing at Nectar’s, while second-placed Blue Barrel were on the wrong end of the result at fellow high-flyers The Lion.

Barn Owl E moved to within three points of a promotion position after easing past Beech Tree B.

Greenbank B were the round’s other victors at Davenham’s expense.