CASTLE Private A continue to lead the way in a race for the Premier Division title, dropping only five chalks at home to Middlewich CC on Friday.

Steve Morrey and Dave O’Brien were their best performers, both recording 21-6 victories.

Wharton Cons A are 42 chalks adrift in second spot after seeing off visiting Crewe PO at the Tin Mission.

At the bottom, Crosstown A and Comberbach A improved their position following wins on their greens against Castle Private B and Wharton Cons B respectively.

Meadowbank A won on the road neighbours Winsford Cons A in Section One, with Nigel Dale and Andy Stelfox the pick of their seven winners.

Rudheath B’s promotion hopes were hit by a defeat away to Davenham A, while Spinner & Bergamot A stay in touch with the leaders following a home win, by 223-195, against village rivals Comberbach B.

Pacesetters Wharton Cons C ceded only six chalks to visitors Coppenhall in Section Two.

Barry Cookson’s 21-7 success was best, while Joe Crowson recorded the solitary victory for their opponents.

Barnton Cricket Club A occupy the other promotion position after winning by seven marks at Castle Private C.

Hartford A recorded only a third league win of the campaign, seeing off Helsby, while Cuddington A’s wait to register a maiden win continues following an away reverse at Moulton RBL A.

Hazel Pear B are out in front in Section Three, winning by a 114-chalk margin against Crosstown B this week.

There is no change behind them following defeats on the road for Limes and Davenham B at Tarporley RBL A and Wharton Rec respectively.

Bunbury won away to Comberbach C.

In Section Four, Barnton Cricket Club B won a head-to-head with title rivals Winsford Cons B at Townfield Lane.

They dropped only four chalks in a one-sided encounter, returning 11 winners.

Russ Bebbington bucked a trend for the visitors, who now trail their conquerors by three points at the summit.

Elsewhere, Davenham C totalled an aggregate of 246 at home to Barnton Cricket Club C.

Hop Pole B show now signs of slowing in Section Five, returning home from Winnington B as victors.

Rudheath D, victors at Barnton Cricket Club D, lead the chasing pack.