Top-two clash for Eden RUGBY: Upper Eden lost their top spot in the North Lancs/Cumbria League on Saturday when Wigton beat St Benedict's 14-8 in a rearranged fixture. But Eden, who did not play on Saturday, have a chance of regaining top spot this weekend when they take on the new leaders at Wigton in a top-two clash.

With just seven matches to go, Wigton have 20 points, one ahead of Eden, while title favourites Rossendale are currently third on 18 points with three matches in hand on both Wigton and Eden.

Upper Eden Boars did play, losing 5-32 to Annan 3rds at Pennine Park in a game that the refree finished early because of the driving rain in the second half.

The strong, cold wind had already played a part in the match as Annan's powerful forwards provided the platform for three tries, two of them charge-downs, and a conversion.

The Boars lifted their game after the restart but all they had to show of 10 minutes of sustained pressure was a missed penalty and Annan's forwards gradually regained control. Annan scored two more tries before the Boars managed a consolation score of their own. The ball was moavewd quickly toright wing Dan Murray crossed in the corner.

Upper Eden 3rds (the Hoggs) achieved a comfortable victory away to Barbard Castle, winning 8-31. The team was boosted by the recruitment of some first team players and also included returning veteran forward Mike Robinson and South African coach Rick DeJager at fly half.

Barnard Castle bagged an early penalty but then well won ball was moved swiftly by the Hoggs backs and tries by Sizwe Zondo (2), Ricardo (2) and Gavin Sisson, plus a conversion by Rick Heron, had Barnard Castle on the back foot. All but one of the Hoggs' tries came in the first half but the second half was more even with a try apiece.