With the Hotshots winning and the Jolly Fenman losing this week in the premier division of the South London & Kent Pool Alliance, it appears that the former are now firm favourites to win the their first winter title.

They were made to work hard as last season’s champions George IV held a 6-4 advantage until the final set, where the Hotshots showed their class to secure a narrow 8-7 away victory.

Alas for the Fenman without their absent talisman Richie Mitchell, the 9-6 defeat to an improving all the time Riley’s team, leaves them 14 points adrift and with a little bit to do to catch the Hotshots.

The Pickwick took advantage in third spot with a no nonsense win at Woolwich Catholic Club.

Paul Gafa’ and Martin Storey made sure the visitors took the lion share of the points with a 12-3 away win, to haul the Pickwick closer in the chase for second spot.

The Coach & Horses had an important 8-7 home win against the Beehive who appear to have lost their way after an impressive first half of the season.

Just two points separate the Coach, Catholic Club and Fox Under The Hill after the latter thrashed the Summerfield 13-2.

Simon Evans and Chris Gaunt both completed hat tricks as more misery was heaped on the luckless Summerfield who seem doomed to relegation now, adrift at the foot of the table.

The King William IV are just one of the teams aiming to replace the Summerfield from the first division.

A 10-5 win at home to Riley’s Royals keeps them top of the table from the Kings Arms who are still yet to be beaten this season in all competitions.

The margins of success though are beginning to narrow.

The Bellegrove Social Club ran them real close and can count themselves unlucky to lose by the odd frame.

Jamie Kay has lost very few frames this season once again put up a perfect score, and Lee Osbourn chipped in with a nice total clearance for the Kings Arms.

The Blue anchor sounded their intentions with a big 13-2 home win against Lee Green Constitutional Club to keep their hopes of automatic promotion alive.

There were also wins for mid table teams Angerstein Hotel and Gallies.

The reserve division kicked off this week, and the early pace setters are Our Lady of the Rosary with an 11-1 win at Fanny On The Hill.

The Pickwick Academicals and Running Horses produced the first draw in SLKPA history, sharing 12 frames. New teams are always welcome into the SLKPA, with teams consisting of 3 or more players and matches played on Thursday evenings.

For more information log onto www.slkpa.com or contact Paul Gafa’ on 07753 926291.