MASONS A opened up a two-point lead at the top of Section 1 in the Johnsons Buildbase Oxford League after a thumping 5-0 home win over Dolphin, writes PETE EWINS.

Mick Murphy (2,040), Maxi McDonnell (3,340), Martyn Wood (6,940), Dave Rose (3,680) and Alan Lowe (7,810) did the damage.

Hot on their heels are West Oxford Democrats, who won 3-2 at Section 2 leaders Gladiators A.

Keith Gardner scored an excellent 13,960 to put Gladiators in front, but John Patey (5,640), Richard Garrett (6,640) and Billy Hill (9250) did enough for Democrats.

Premier Section leaders Kennington triumphed 4-1 at home to Comrades Club.

Kevin Godfrey (10,290), Steven Sheard (12,100, break 8,500) and Mark Trafford (15,980, break 7,230) were on song for the victors.

Second-placed Vikings defeated Didcot Conservative Club on their own table 3-2 thanks to Ian Moss (8,130), Lewis Stratford (6,370) and Pete Ewins (4,990).

Results: Masons A 4, Dolphin 0; Headington Con Club 1, Masons B 4; Didcot Con Club 2, Vikings 3; Kennington 4, Comrades 1; Gladiators A 2, West Oxford Democrats 3; Berinsfield 3, Gladiators B 2.

Tonight’s fixtures: Comrades v Didcot Con Club, Gladiators B v Masons A, Masons B v Marlborough, Dolphin v West Oxford Democrats, Berinsfield v Headington Con Club.