VIKINGS A are three points clear at the top of the Premier Section in the Johnsons Buildbase Oxford League, writes PETE EWINS.

They took full advantage of Kennington’s free week by winning 4-1 away to Section 1 side Masons B, despite going behind when Ernie Smith beat Lewis Stratford.

Victories from Ian Moss (7,600), Alan Lacey (8,860) – who also won under the four-player rule – and Alan Oliver (10,150) did the trick.

Didcot Con Club triumphed 3-2 at home to Democrats thanks to Stuart Florey (9,530), Sue Atkins (3,270) and Dennis Atkins (5,630).

Billy Hill (6,010) and John Patey (4,590) replied for Democrats.

Section 3 leaders Gladiators B saw off Marlborough 3-2 at home.

Phil Clark (4,400) took the opening leg, Chris Bateman levelling with 7,920.

Neil Cunliffe (3,780) and Grant Johnson (3,740) put Glads 3-1 up, before Iain Major cut the deficit with a win over Jenny Webb.

Sabrina Storch, Mellissa Standbridge and top-scorer Martin Atkins (5,210) were Dolphin’s winners in their 3-2 victory at Headington Conservative Club.

Results

League: Masons B 1, Vikings A 4; Didcot CC 3, Democrats 2; Gladiators B 3, Marlborough 2; Vikings B 3, Gladiators A 2, HCC 2, Dolphin 3.

Cup: Headington Con Club bt Dolphin 6-4 on aggregate.

Tonight’s matches

League Cup 2nd leg: Vikings A (1) v Democrats (4), Kennington (3) v Comrades (2), Didcot CC (3) v Masons A (2), Marlborough (4) v Glads B (1), Glads A (3) v Berinsfield (2).