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TITLE CHARGE: Steve Kimber

Oxford Mail Cross Country League

Steve Kimber closed in on his third successive senior men's title, despite having to settle for second place in the fourth round at Cirencester Park on Sunday.

o The Headington Roadrunner will go into next month's final round at Horspath with a handy nine-point lead, which should be an ample advantage to secure the crown again.

The senior men's race was dominated by Kimber, along with a new name to the league, Mathew Almond from Alchester.

Reigning champion Kimber had to give best to Almond, who completed the two-lap course in 30mins 54secs.

Kimber was always in contention, and was neck-and-neck with Almond throughout, only to miss out by five seconds in the race for the line.

But it proved a disappointing day for Headington's A team, as they were comprehensively beaten by host club Cirencester.

The Gloucestershire team brought all seven of their points scorers home in the top 40, while Headington, who are defending champions, finished 140 points adrift.

It looks certain, therefore, that there will be a new name on the Division 1 trophy, with Cirencester holding a massive lead going into the final round.

In the women's race, it was another red-letter day for White Horse Harrier Frances Briscoe, who is looking unstoppable in her bid for the senior and overall women's titles.

Briscoe posted another convincing victory as she clocked 23.32 to see off her nearest challengers by almost a minute.

Emerging talent Yasmin Smith (Swindon Harriers) was second, the under 20 athlete clocking 24.28, but she was no match for a fluent Briscoe.

She helped Harriers to second place in the team competition, although Swindon were considerably stronger than normal for what is their local race.

In fact, Harriers are only four points adrift of top spot in Division 2 going into the final round, and are a good bet for promotion to Division 1.

There is certain to be a new name in the ladies' Division 1 trophy, with reigning champs Cirencester well adrift.

Team Kennet and Headington Roadrunners will go head-to-head in the final round, the latter just three points behind.

3:45pm Wednesday 6th February 2008

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