Reigning Oxford League champions Oracle can only watch and hope to see if they have done enough to retain their Division 1 title.

Oracle's team of Lee Stopps, Ted Milsom and Jack Woods regained pole position after a 3-0 victory over HCC A in their final match.

Hot on their tails - one point behind with a game to play - are Ashton and Newtrim, while Riley A are a further point back.

Ashton, with three more wins than the other contenders, must be favourites.

Playing Riley B at home, Ashton surprisingly dropped a vital point when Tony Brayshaw (+50) lost to Alan Copelin (+90) 140-150.

Riley A, lost 2-1 at home to Morris Motors, with debutant Nolan Aselford (+70) being their only winner. He beat Bob Hayward (+80) 150-136 after coming from 70 behind.

Newtrim won 2-1 at home to Division 2 champions Witney, despite losing the opening game when Norman Woodcock (+90) lost 150-80 to Steve Mill (+110). Newtrim stalwarts Bob Chivers (-10) and Simon Aries (-50) beat Terry Cook and John Hume.

New Club gained their second successive win when they beat Crown House 2-1 with both their 'golden oldies' Harry Kidner (aged 88) and George Washington (78) winning. Their 'youngster', Paul Moss (+110), lost to Len Palmer (+100).

The final of the Oxford Times Cup between holder Simon Aries and former winner Dick Hashman takes place at the Cowley Conservative Club tomorrow (7.15pm).

In the semi-finals, Aries made breaks of 45 and 49 to defeat Martin Cone (Thame) 500-350, while Hashman beat Bob Chivers 500-396.

OXFORD AND DISTRICT LEAGUE

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

Highest breaks - Div 1: D Hashman (Crown House) 59. Div 2: R Beament (Riley's B) 48. Div 3: S Mill (Witney) 35.