The prospect of West Bowling and Dudley Hill meeting in a National Conference derby next season moved one step nearer following Saturday's results.

Bowling are now in serious danger of the dreaded drop from the Premier Division following the 32-0 defeat at Skirlaugh.

They are now just a point clear of the bottom three relegation berths having played one game more than rivals Wath Brow. With most of their big guns away on a stag do, Wests gave debuts to two 17-year-old prospects - full back Adam Crompton and scrum half Sam Whitehouse, who both played admirably in a weakened side.

Evergreen prop Lee Hutchinson rolled back the years with a powerhouse performance, leaving stand-in coach Glenn Barraclough to reflect: "We were actually on top for long periods of the first half but could not get over the line. Three tries in five minutes down the left flank cost us the game and, although we created chances, a lack of penetration made all the difference."

Dudley Hill on the other hand are riding high in Division Two after a 20-0 win at Egremont left them just two points behind leaders Waterhead in second spot.

Hill lead 12-0 at the break following tries from Sean and Ryan Dickinson, both converted by Neil Wall. They shut their Cumbrian hosts out of the second stanza thanks to some great defensive work, particularly from Andrew Kilmartin and Darren Mumby.

Late efforts from Lee O'Connor and man of the match Liam Brentley made doubly sure of the spoils.