Newcastle Communities A continued their fight for survival in the Premier Division of the Northumbria League when hat tricks by David Tang and Clara Chau gave them a 6 - 4 victory when they visited Newton A. They are now only one point away from getting out of the relegation places. Saint Chads moved back into contention at the top of the table when Keith Weatherby was unbeaten in an 8 - 2 success over Seaburn Dene which takes them into second place. Leaders Cramlington Casuals were held to a draw by Cramlington Reivers despite Andrew Wilkinson being unbeaten. Gary Sangster won two singles for the Reivers and helped Dale Aitkenhead to win the doubles.

Division one leaders Byker A had Keith Patterson in fine form, being unbeaten as they overcame Riding Mill A 7 - 3. Phil Prady got two sets and Mark O'Connor did likewise for the losers.Both clubs B teams were also in opposition with their match ending in a draw.

Mortimer extended their lead at the top of division two when unbeaten performances from Dave Bannon and Dick Karczewski helped them to defeat Ouston B 8 - 2. Cramlington Cobras beat Saints by the same score but YMCA North Tyneside B lost out at home to Newton C to the tune of 7 - 3. Neil Forsyth gained a hat trick for the winners.

Another player to get a hat trick was Ben D'Arcy of Old England FATTS as his side won 8 - 2 away to Whitley Chapel in division three to stay in first place ahead of Cramlington Swifts. Keith Hodges and Nigel Tree both won twice for Matfen B in a 6 - 4 victory over NESLC Codgers but could not get the better of Dave Swan who won all of his matches.

Division four leaders had a comfortable 10 - 0 home victory over the young Cramlington Magpies although the youngsters put up a good performance. Another young Cramlington team lost by the same score to Newcastle Communities B. The Magpies were again in action losing out to another young side in the Lions 9 - 1. Gareth Rickaby won their only set when he shocked Alex Dyter. Blair Carmichael and Alex Creighton were both unbeaten.

 

Aubrey Drapkin