The Division 1 title race in the Oxford and District Billiards League will go down to the wire after leaders New Club slipped to a surprise 2-1 defeat against Headington Conservative A.

New Club won the first game when Dave White (+80) beat Terry Walsh (+100) 150-106. Doug Howse (+30) levelled by edging out Alan King(+10) 200-192.

The decider was won by Headington's John Williams(+70) who destroyed Alan Mander (+60) 150-72.

New Club will hope to clinch the title when they play Ashton in their final match.

Cowley Conservative Club B beat their A team 2-1 thanks to some devastating play by Brian Mabbutt, who crushed crush Dick Hashman(+10) 200-29, the latter's heaviest ever defeat.

RESULTS League: Headington Cons Club A 2, New Club 1; Ashton 2, Riley B 1; Cowley Con Club A 1, Cowley Conservative Club B 2; Riley A 2, Thame 1; Eynsham 2, Oracle 1.

Hashman Shield semi-finals: Riley B 2, Oracle 1; Ashton 2, Cowley Con Club A 1.

Stephen Reiss Cup: Fieldside 4, New Club 1; Cowley Cons Club A 4, Thame 1; Cowley Con Club B 4, Riley B 1.