MASONS Arms moved top of Oxford & District League Division 1 with a 5-1 thumping of Gladiators Club, writes PETE EWINS.

Alan Lowe (9,570) got the new leaders off to the perfect start, before Bert Lovegrove (4,450) levelled.

But a Mick Murphy double, Martyn Wood and Lowe’s second win sealed victory to put Masons three points clear.

Democrats fell to second with a 4-2 loss at Donnington, who had Jenny Florey (6,680) Ian Moquet (10,020 & 7,380) and Dave Tooke (9,390) to thank.

Terry Green and Richard Garrett won for the visitors.

Staff Club recovered from 2-0 down to draw 3-3 with Headington Con Club, Sid Ponting and Roger Tomlin saving the hosts from defeat.

Oracle overcame visitors Vikings B 5-1 in the Premier Division, thanks to Mark Trafford (10,590), Pauline Withey (8,480), Ian Gordon (5,660 & 4,630) and Brian Rose.

Vikings A beat Berinsfield Club 4-2 at home, Alan Lacey (14,810, breaks 9,380 & 5,500) and Alan Oliver (10,490, break 8,160) top scoring, John Boal winning twice for the visitors.