AFTER the seniors had to forfeit their game against Salem due to a technical hitch, the top spot of the Manchester League Division One which they currently own, could be lost depending on the results of other games.

However, the team is in good shape to top the table and take league honours with promotion next season.

The Juniors however played host to Clwyd and with Nick McCarthy injured it was up to the other players to contribute to a team win.

Bolton looked to Lindon Gillespie who, with quickness and athletic ability, led the way scoring 10 consecutive points. He shot the ball from long range while also taking it strong inside.

Bolton, who unusually were the taller of the teams, capitalised on this strength with Phil Morgan hitting the boards with aggression scoring on second chance opportunities.

The offence was flowing while the defence held tight with Gillespie hitting 25 points at the half; Bolton held a 42 to 23 lead. Clwyd somehow woke up and began to play as though they meant business hitting three consecutive threes while holding Bolton scoreless as they went on a 10 to 0 run.

They denied Gillespie the ball and with Captain Pete Hartley on the bench in foul trouble, the offence lacked attitude. However, Clwyd having clawed their way back into the game seemed content with the hard work and began to look satisfied with a deficit of 15 staring at them.

McCarthy came off the bench risking injury to his ankle, for some instant offence hitting a three while under 15 player Ross Dickinson contributed well rebounding and making assists and getting his name on the score sheet.

The highlight of the game -- a visiting player drove down the lane after beating his man and laid the ball up high, just before it hit the backboard Gillespie came out of nowhere and slammed the ball against the glass for a ferocious block which drew 'oohs' from those watching.

Bolton ran the offence to perfection and ran out winners 81 to 42 with four wins out of 10 and a fifth place in the National Under 19s First Division. Lindon Gillespie and Phil Morgan led scorers with 32 and 21 points respectively.