BRADFORD'S billiards team picked up a 7-5 win at Great Horton Conservative Club in the Yorkshire Inter-District League as they beat leaders Harrogate to remain in contention for the title.

Steve Wilman got Bradford off to a great start, knocking in breaks of 43 and 51 to defeat Harrogate captain Tim Godolphin 200-81 and take the hosts into a 3-0 lead.

The second game looked like it might even things up as Jon Marwood took an early lead for Harrogate with an effort of 33 and gave Bradford captain Stephen Kershaw few opportunities to respond.

Yet a late break of 31 from the home man got him over 100 to secure a single point and keep Bradford in front at 4-3.

Paul Devitt of Bradford made the early running in the vital third game against Steve Crosland but a break of 32 got the former Yorkshire champion on level terms at around the 50 mark.

A dour struggle then ensued but Devitt eventually ran out with 37 unfinished to complete a 200-177 score and a 3-2 victory.

This ended a successful night for Bradford, who now trail their opponents by just three points with a game in hand.

Bradford's next match is at Huddersfield No 1, who are five points behind but have played a game less. The teams meet at Brockholes Bowling Club on Saturday (7.30pm).

In Division One of the snooker equivalent, leaders Bradford No 1 host Harrogate at Undercliffe Cricket Club on Sunday (7pm), while Bradford No 2 take on Skipton Division at Cue Gardens (7.30pm).