THE champagne is on ice at Highfield as Leek are within touching distance of claiming the Division One title.

Brian Mellor has guided his side back to the top flight at the first attempt, and now they are closing in on the championship with a 34-point advantage over their nearest rivals.

Victory in their home clash with Whitmore will set the corks popping in the Moorlands after a superb season which has seen them lose only three matches.

Whitmore, who have climbed up to fourth, were among the pre-season favourites to claim the crown, but have been left to rue an indifferent start which forced them to play catch-up.

The battle for the second promotion spot is still alive with Sandyford and Meir Heath in the frame to join Leek at the top table.

Sandyford are 11 points clear of their promotion rivals heading into their home encounter with mid-table Blythe, who were thrashed by Meir Heath last weekend.

Meir Heath captain Richard Stonier scored an unbeaten half-century in that win, which keeps his side in touch with Sandyford, and they will be favourites to take the points at home to relegated Stafford tomorrow.

The division's bottom side were finally put out of their misery last weekend.

Second-bottom Rode Park and Lawton look likely to join Stafford in Division Two next year as they are 40 points from safety.

Jonathan Gallimore's men, who saw off Norton last weekend, entertain Cheadle tomorrow searching for a win which could keep their faint hopes of salvation intact.

Betley's recent struggles, which culminated in a 10-wicket demolition at the hands of Sandyford last week, has seen them plummet down the table.

They sit third from bottom, and although they appear to have achieved their season's objective of survival, a win at Oulton would guarantee their status.

Oulton, who were promoted with Betley last season, have fared better this year and occupy fifth place.

The final match of the day sees mid-table pair Leycett and Norton clash at Park Terrace.

Both sides were arguably expected to be challenging higher up the standings, but will use the closing weeks to prepare for next year.