With the winter season drawing to a close Cramlington Casuals are still on course to win the Premier Division championship of the Northumbria League but NESLC Eagles are still their main threat although the Eagles lost a little ground when they dropped four points at home to Cramlington Stingers despite Jim Stamas winning all of his sets. David Graham and Bonne Habekost got two each for the visitors. The title could, however, be decided when the Eagles entertain the Casuals. At the other end of the table Seaburn Dene are already relegated but three teams are still in danger of going down with them. Newcastle Communities are currently only six points behind Newton with a game in hand after getting a draw against Springwell with David Tang unbeaten and YMCA North Tyneside are still not safe.

Byker TTC have won the first division but second spot is still to be decided with Tyne Dock favourites after winning 7 – 3 away at Springwell B while Old England Jacks were losing 8 – 2 at North Fire A. Riding Mill a are also still in the frame, having a game in hand.  Springwell’s defeat pushed them into a relegation place with Matfen’s side of Phil Rainford, Chris Kilsby and Arran Kent gained a great 10 – 0 home victory over North Fire B.

Mortimer seem assured of promotion from the second division along with either Cramlington Cobras or YMCA North Tyneside. The Cobras lost out 7 – 3 to the YMCA but bounced back to defeat Ouston B 9 – 1 which puts them four points ahead of the YMCA with two matches to play. Any two of Corinthians, Ouston B and Saints will be relegated.

Old England FATTS side of Nigel Coe, Steve Martin and Ben D’Arcy defeated NESLC Codgers 7 – 3 to seal top spot in division three with Cramlington Swifts  also promoted. YMCA North Tyneside C look likely to accompany the Ravens into division four but could save themselves with a big win in their last match against the Codgers.

Newcastle Communities B ended their fourth division programme with a 9 – 1 win away to the Magpies to ensure promotion but Sacriston Comets could still finish top if they get a 9 – 1 win over Newton D.

 

Aubrey Drapkin