Ali must continue firing for Thackley (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Ali must continue firing for Thackley

1:30pm Thursday 2nd July 2009

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Thackley face the two biggest weeks of their season, at the end of which they could be well on the way towards a second successive Aire-Wharfe League promotion or out of the top two and back in the chasing pack.

Since their only defeat of the season by Upper Wharfedale on May 9, Thackley have picked up 40 from a possible 42 points and jumped from sixth to top of the DIVISION TWO table.

That has owed a lot to the magnificent bowling of Mahir Ali, whose return in those seven games has been 46 wickets at an average of just under six runs.

Next week they face their closest rivals Illingworth but before that they have a tough test on Saturday at third-placed Pool, who – despite slipping up last week against Tong Park-Esholt – are only eight points behind Thackley.

A win for either side could be very significant to the outcome of the season.

Meanwhile, Park could do Thackley and themselves a favour if they produce a second successive shock and win at Illingworth. They will certainly be hoping to do better than on the first day of the season when Illingworth dismissed them for 65.

Steeton travel to improving Bilton, Upper Wharfedale entertain fourth-placed Follifoot and Harden could climb out of the bottom two if they see off fellow strugglers Colton.

Rawdon could increase their advantage at the top of DIVISION ONE with a victory at Burley, while nearest rivals North Leeds face a tricky trip to Adel.

Otley travel to third-placed Beckwithshaw and Silsden face a tough challenge at Collingham, while Calverley seek their first win of the campaign at home to Kirkstall.

Green Lane desperately need a win at home to inconsistent Guiseley if they are to keep alive their faltering hopes of lifting the title.

Olicanian and Bolton Villas should have no problem maintaining their grip on the top two slots in DIVISION THREE with comfortable-looking matches at Woodhouse and Addingham respectively.

Indeed, they might open up an even greater lead over third-placed Ilkley. They travel to New Rover, who last week finally found a way to turn high scoring into a victory.

After four wins in a row, Menston will fancy their chances at home to Skipton, while Ben Rhydding should pick up full points against Hall Park and Horsforth ought be too strong for Alwoodley.

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