LEADERS Rileys fought back from a game behind to maintain their narrow lead at the top of the Oxford & District League's first division with a 2-1 victory at Cowley Con Club B.

It started badly for Rileys when Brian Mabbutt (+10) surprised Keith Maskens (+70) 200-181 in the opening game.

However, Jason Buck (+70) beat John Simpson (+20) 200-163 to level the match, before Alan Copelin (+100) ended Ken Olive's winning run with a 150-140 victory.

Division 2 leaders Ashton lost 2-1 at home to Newtrim, from Division 1.

Terry Chambers (+10) kept up his winning sequence by beating Simon Aries (-60) 200-181 to record Ashton's point. But earlier, Bob Chivers (-20) was too good for Peter Fenn (+90), winning 200-162, while Paul Robinson (scratch) beat Nobby Noble (+100) 200-155.

Witney came away from local rivals Eynsham with a 2-1 victory.

Geoff Watson (+110) gave Eynsham a brilliant start, beating John Hume (+10) 200-121.

Steve Mill (+60) levelled the match when he saw off Ken Leach (+110) 150-144, helped by a 27 break.

In the decider, Terry Cook (+30) made a 35 break on the way to victory over Mick McCluskey (+110).

Results: Ashton 1, Newtrim 2; HCC A 1, New Club 2; Thame 0, CCC A 3; Eynsham 1, Witney 2; CCC B 1, Riley 2; Morris Motors 2, Oracle 1.

ENTRIES for individual competitions close next Sunday. Forms should be sent to Dick Hashman.