THE best young players from the Northwich and District League attempted to impress selectors for England’s under 21s team during a trial last weekend.

Adam Griffiths and Eric Webber, regulars for newly-formed Gladstone C in the competition’s top flight, both bowed out at the same stage after winning three of their six matches.

“They gave a great account of themselves,” said Helen Twiss, who runs Cheshire’s youth team.

“Both are a great advert for the game in Northwich, and hopefully their success will encourage other young players to try pool.”

In the league, champions Rudheath will likely need another win to make safe another Division One title after edging a deciding frame in a slender win against The Elms.

Fred Backhouse’s maximum break secured victory in style against his former Middlewich Road teammate Amos Wright.

Gladstone C, 20 points adrift in second spot, have a game in hand.

Gladstone B are favourites to finish third after squeezing past guests Barn Owl D by the odd frame.

There were wins too for Gladstone A and Barn Owl C, while Bowling Green B continue to occupy a relegation place after losing at home to Green Dragon A.

Greenbank A cut Hartford B’s lead at the Division Two summit to 22 points after a hard-fought success against Hartford A.

However Castle Private will remain confident of pinching the second promotion place after winning at Wheatsheaf, for they have a game in hand on the teams above them.

Witton Chimes and Bowling Green B were the section’s other winners at the expense of Owley Wood B and Iron Bridge respectively.

The Lion, at least for now, are top of the Division Three table following a 4-3 win at home to Nectar’s.

However they must rely on favours to stay there with the chasing pack all able to count on two games in hand.

Barn Owl E climbed to third place after winning at Beech Tree A. Green Dragon B are the only side in the league to win more than four frames, with Beech Tree B on the receiving end.