Steeton slipped to a 4-3 defeat in their top of the table battle with Altofts -- who took over at the top of the West Riding County Amateur League's first division.

The clubs have been fighting it out for top spot throughut the first half of the season, and the classic battle was a fitting end to 2002. Steeton took a 2-1 lead into the break, with Andy Smith heading them into the lead, with Danny Gaudiosi adding the second.

But Alofts fought their way back int he second period with Andy Sibson adding to his firfst half gal and further strikes from Gareth Price and Steve Ripley, while Rob Henson scored Steeton's only second half goal.

The defeat lifted Altofts on to 37 points, two ahead of Steeton with both teams having played 16 games.

Keighley Shamrocks have climbed to sixth place in the table after putting together a string of good results, but were not in action at the weekend.

n Keighley Ladies pulled off a 4-1 victory over Bradford City with a superb second half performance.

The teams were locked together with the score 1-1 at the break, but Keighley stepped up a gear in the second half. Goals were scored by Shannon Foley and Maria McArdle with new signing, Fatima, adding two goals on her debut.

Last Sunday they drew 1-1 with Battyeford, clawing their way back from 1-0 down at the breaqk despite terrible conditions.

With 20 minutes to go midfielder Frances Nichol chipped the keeper.

They had their best chance of scoring a winner with when five players had a shot in the penalty area in the closing stages, but each time the ball stuck in the mud. Batyeford also had a glorious opportunity to score, but were denied by the Keighley side's new goalkeeper.

On Sunday they take on Amaranth Ladies at Marley (kick-off 1.30).

n Adam Smith (right) heads home the opening goal for Steeton.