THE top two teams both faltered in their quest for the league title but the home defeat of Lealholm by Hinderwell means that barring some freak results Lingdale United, who only drew with Brotton, are now firm favourites to win the title.

Lealholm started poorly against Hinderwell and the game was very even with neither side grabbing a real foothold. The visitors defended well throughout and with ten minutes to go Lealholm lost the ball on the right and it was quickly switched to the left where Anth King was on hand to fire in the only goal of the game.

Lingdale welcomed Brotton and soon found that they and a battle on their hands as the visitors defended stoutly and blocked everything that was thrown at them. Former Lingdale player Bob Ovington gave the visitors

the lead and although Andy Smith equalised the home side could not break down the resolute visitors again and the sides shared the points.

In the remaining game near the foot of the table, Loftus entertained Dormanstown and the home side took the lead before the visitors levelled through Dan Greatrex. The second half saw Loftus restore their lead with 20 minutes to go and two late goals sealed victory for the home side. Elliott, Harris, Higgins and Bowes were on

target for Loftus.