CASTLE Private A struck a blow in their fight to recapture the Mid-Cheshire Bowling Association Premier Division title after winning at champions Wharton Cons A.

It marks only the third time the Winsford outfit have lost a league encounter at the Tin Mission since 2002.

Castle were their conquerors on both previous occasions too, in 2003 and in 2011.

Now clear at the table’s summit, they are the only team in the top flight to boast of an unblemished record.

Comberbach A won by five chalks at Rudheath A, while Middlewich became the latest side to inflict defeat on Shavington.

Owley Wood A were the highest scorers in Section One on Friday, totalling 242 at home to Winsford Cons A.

Front-runners Alsager Institute recorded a seventh successive win, this time at Rudheath B’s expense.

Meanwhile Meadowbank A were victors on the road, at Comberbach B.

Wharton Cons C dropped only half a dozen chalks at home to Rudheath C in Section Two.

They lead the way from Moulton RBL A, only three points further back after beating lowly Hartford A.

In Section Three, Comberbach C were the only team to win away from home.

Davenham B, conquerors of Bunbury, lead the way from Limes at the top of the standings.

Owley Wood B chalked up 234 at home to Barnton Cricket Club C in Section Four, a total beaten by pacesetters Winsford Cons B – if only by two marks – in their success against Delamere.

Moulton RBL B, who reached the Littler Cup quarter finals earlier in the week, recorded only a second victory of the season.

However it was away from home, at Hartford B.

Hop Pole B let slip only eight chalks in a defeat of Tarporley RBL B in Section Five, winning by a margin of 131.

Rudheath D defeated Castle Private D, and occupy the second promotion place ahead of Winnington B.