Ripon players Val Gears and Sue Bailey proved they can compete in a man's world - and win.

The pair, who play in the male-dominated Harrogate and District League, both recorded victories over men as their side defeated the Army Foundation College. Neil Jackson recorded Ripon's other victory to give them a 3-0 success.

Gears defeated Steve Roberts, finishing at a canter without the loss of a point in the final game to take the match 9-5, 9-6, 8-10, 9-0. Bailey dropped just five points as she brushed aside the challenge of Richard Betts to leave the Army licking their battle wounds.

Jackson's victory in the Division Three clash came against Brian Darkin and was a hard-won affair. Jackson hit back to win 1-9, 9-10, 9-3, 10-8, 9-2.

Former champions Moortown moved to within two points of Division One leaders Harrogate Squash after beating current title holders Nomads 3-0.

Squash head the division with 54 points from five straight wins. Moortown, who have already lost a match, are on 52 points. Squash kept their unbeaten bandwagon rolling by defeating Ilkley 2-1.

Results. - Division One: Moortown 3 Nomads 0; Squash 2 Ilkley 1; Otley 0 Headingley 3.

Division Two: Collingham II 3 Knaresborough 0; Harlow III 1 Squash IV 2; Collingham III 3 Pateley Bridge 0; Moortown II 0 Squash II 3.

Division Three: Ripon 3 Army Foundation College 0; Knaresborough II 1 Harlow IV 2; Moortown III 2 Moortown IV 1; Squash V 2 Otley II 1.