Four-way race for Bradford title after leaders Woodlands let it slip

Champions Woodlands (270 points) are in danger of throwing away what would be a sixth title in seven seasons after suffering defeats to East Bierley by five wickets and Farsley by 93 runs.

In contrast their three challengers, Cleckheaton (266), Lightcliffe (260) and East Bierley (259) all won both their weekend games and now just 12 points separate the top four.

Cleckheaton followed up a nail-biting one-wicket win over Bradford & Bingley with a convincing 129-run victory over Hanging Heaton. They are now just four points behind Woodlands going into the final game.

Lightcliffe, who defeated Hanging Heaton by four wickets thanks to an unbeaten 129 from Charlie Roebuck on Saturday, followed up be defeating Pudsey Congs by seven runs yesterday with Alex Lees making 103.

East Bierley, who still have hopes of a league and cup double, will be well satisfied with their weekend’s work after also beating Manningham Mills by 106 runs.

The final-day fixtures – matches which were moved from the opening day due to rain – see Woodlands at home to Bradford & Bingley, Cleckheaton, chasing their first title, away to Pudsey Congs, East Bierley host Pudsey St Lawrence and Lightcliffe entertain an Undercliffe side who were relegated when they were bowled out for 98 at Pudsey St Lawrence to lose by eight wickets. Spinner Chris Marsden took 7-29.

Farsley kept alive their survival hopes with their surprise win over Woodlands. Makeshift opener Neil Laidlaw top-scored with 86.

They are now 12 points adrift of Hanging Heaton, who are flirting dangerously with relegation after their defeats by Lightcliffe and Cleckheaton.

Baildon secured an immediate return to Division One when they defeated Great Horton by 10 wickets. Yeadon can still pip them for the Division Two title if they get 16 points in their final game at Morley, who will win promotion with victory,