WITH league leaders Richmond Town Academy without a game last Saturday, Colburn Town had the chance to close the gap at the top when they faced bottom club Hawes B.

Having put 23 goals past them the previous week the result was never really in doubt, but they had to settle for just 15 this time as Stu Murray struck five while Ashley McInerney and Chris Dempster hit two each.

Pete Hughes, Al Reid, Ricky Lannon, Damian Hargreaves, Steve Adams and Gavin Armstrong were also on target to complete the formalities and put Colburn 12 points behind with three games in hand.

Richmond Mavericks moved into the top four after a 1-0 win at Carperby Rovers.

The hosts’ new pavilion and changing facilities had been opened by Tottenham and England striker Peter Crouch the previous week but they were unable to mark their first match in front of them with a win as a goal from Craig Vincent gave the in-form Mavericks three points.

Buck Inn Old Boys also enjoyed a 1-0 win at Hawes United. Mickey White struck the only goal midway through the second half with a fine effort from 30 yards, while only a late goalline clearance from Scott Ryan ensured the Old Boys held off a strong late Hawes rally.

Reeth remain second from bottom despite coming from behind to beat Askrigg United 2-1 at home. Gary Cockrill flicked home a cross from Tom Hammond to give the visitors the lead just before the break but a second half brace from Craig Swainson gave Reeth only their second league victory of the season.

Unicorn FC also enjoyed a rare three points as they surprisingly beat visitors Spennithorne and Harmby 4-1.

Luke Dent and Danny Allen put the hosts in control before the break while a brace from Ed Dennis in the second half sealed the points, before Lee Davison grabbed the Spenni consolation from the penalty spot.

Meanwhile, the potential title six-pointer between thirdplaced Buck Inn Broncos and second-placed Leyburn United was postponed due to a frozen pitch at Kneeton Park.