DESPITE tasting defeat at Penketh Cons B, Warrington Snooker League Division One leaders Newton Social B extended their lead by four as the season reached its midway point.

Phil Tsang’s 52 break was helpless to prevent Newton Social B losing 4-3 at Penketh Cons B, but because second-place GESM A lost 5-2 at Walkers A and third-place Roosters C also lost 4-3 at Woolston A, Newton increased the gap.

GTBL A eased their relegation fears after breaks of 58 from Dave Newton and 33 from Gary Tatlock helped them beat fourth-placed Alford D 5-2.

Culcheth Sports B hold a one-point lead at the top of Division Two after winning 4-3 at Monks A, but GESM C kept up the pressure thanks to James Frith’s 37 break and Gary Williams’ 30 break as they won 5-2 at third-place Bridgewater Club, who were helped by a 31 break from Andy Peek.

Kings Club A lead Division Three on matches won after they beat Woolston B 5-2, with St Josephs on the same points after beating Irlam Catholic B 5-2.

Roosters D are only one point back in third place after a 4-3 win at Deaf Social B.

Wayne Brown kept up his impressive form with breaks of 79 and 53 as he progressed to the next round of the Individual Handicap.