ELTON took another big stride towards the Bolton Association championship last Saturday as they picked up a winning draw against rivals Atherton.

Prior to last weekend's game Atherton were ten points behind, but with a game in hand. They still have the game in hand but they are now twenty points behind.

Darcy Lever have also thrown their hat into the ring as they are now only six points adrift.

This year's title chase has been perhaps the tightest for several years, with three teams realistically competing.

On Saturday Elton batted first and posted a commanding total of 184.

Professional Dexter Fitton scored the bulk of the runs with a majestic 84, despatching his opposite number, Lee Childs, for several sixes into Parker's Lodge as he held Elton's innings together.

Damion Keegan also contributed with an exciting 29 before being caught on the boundary after mistiming a straight drive.

Despite Elton posting a good score Atherton still would have fancied chasing it.

However, after a lightning early spell from Peter Kay, they gave up easily and settled for a losing draw.

Atherton are still in the hunt though. If they win their game in hand they will be level with Elton on points and the season promises to go right to the wire.

Elton's second string's chances of winning their league appear to be fading as, despite an unbeaten century by Steve Lomax, they were beaten by Atherton.

There's still a chance of some silverware for them though when they play Atherton & Tyldesley in their cup final this Sunday.