WITH just five fixtures remaining in division two of the Brewin Dolphin Securities-sponsored Malvern Table Tennis League, four teams were battling to avoid the one remaining relegation place.

Three wins from Colin Dolding, one from Dave Steen and together doubles success saw Crackpots earn the draw they needed from their match with Travellers to ensure their survival.

They came close to snatching victory when James Palmer came from two sets down to level with Bob Atyeo, before losing the deciding set 16-14. It was a busy night for Bob, who also beat Dave but lost to Colin, both in the fifth set. He was well supported by Martin Snee (2) and Ken Hipwell (1).

Broadheath guaranteed second division table tennis for themselves next year with a victory against Bromyard Logics. Richard Owens won all his three games for the visitors, but a solid team performance from Broadheath gave them the points. Brett Brining, Peter Roberts and John Stalker each won twice and John and Brett won the doubles.

These results meant that a win for Travellers over champions Wombats would keep them up and relegate Bromyard Logics.

Wombats started strongly with Dave Williams rallying from two sets down to beat Bob Atyeo. Ken Hipwell levelled the score with a win over Tony Birch, but after a win for Steve Baker and another for Dave, things looked bleak for Travellers.

The home team bounced back with a win each for Bob, Ken and Martin Snee and doubles success for Bob and Martin. This put them 5-3 ahead, a lead which was soon halved by Dave's victory over Martin. Tony took the first two sets of the final game of the night against Bob and a draw looked inevitable but Travellers' never-say-die spirit showed through as Bob came back to win 8-11, 6-11, 11-6, 11-9.

This result, Wombats' only defeat of the season, means that Bromyard Logics are relegated after two seasons in division two.

RESULTS: Manor Park Travellers 5, Crackpots E 5; Broadheath Bellters 7, Bromyard Logics 3; Manor Park Travellers 6, Wombats 4.