WITH the top two unbeaten teams and both with 100 per cent win records a night of nip and tuck badminton was expected as St Lukes and Branthwaite went head-to-head.

St Lukes had to have a big win for them to push their opponents all the way to the end of the season so at least close match was anticipated.

This however did not happen as Branthwaite took the first six sets.

The dominance of Branthwaite continued in the cross over mixed as they again won all the games to lead 10-0.

St Lukes were now playing for pride but Branthwaite were not in the mood to let their opponents off the ropes and then took the top ladies and gent’s doubles to lead the match 14-0.

A white wash was now a possibility and when the ladies double were taken by Branthwaite to 16-0 St Lukes had only the gents doubles to at least score a point.

However, Branthwaite cruised through the first set to make the 17-0. The second set proved slightly more difficult for the Branthwaite pair before winning 21-19 to take the match 18-0 and maintain their 100 per cent record.

In the second division Branthwaite A ran out comfortable winners 14-4 over St Lukes. They then recorded wins against Grange (12-6) and then Heversham (15-3) to take the second division title and return to the top flight.

With Grange picking up the six points and then Kendal A beating Heversham (12-6) this was sufficient to relegate Heversham A to Division 3.

The other place will be decided between Grange and Kendal A who still have to meet each other but with Grange having a game in hand over Kendal A they look set to keep their place in the division.

The closest contest is in Division 3.With only two games left to play for both Sedbergh and Strickland A, they are in a continuing to battle for top spot. Both teams have still to play Bowness A, and these matches may well hold the key to the final outcome.