Second division Poachers pulled of the shock of the third round of the Worcester and District Skittle League team knockout cup when defeating Division One champions Budgies by six pins on Toby's Tavern.

On the first leg both sides scored 77 but then over the next two legs helped by back-to-back spares of 14 and 13 from John Cooper, the Poachers built an advantage to lead after three legs by 10 pins.

Although Budgies reduced the deficit by four pins on the fourth leg Poachers managed to hang on to their lead and win the game without the help of the five-pin handicap.

Results: Poachers 402 (J Cooper 47, D Sheppard 40), Budgies 391 (P Albutt 37); Barmy Army 352 (Andy Davies 34), Arbos 367 (A Wilton 38); Newsmen 383 (J Cooke 42), Scaplehorns 388 (D Moore 39); Cradley Sports 424 (J Goode 45, K Bullock 43, S Jenkins 40), Westsiders 413 (K Ingram 43, T Trigg 40); Sketchley Floaters 422 (A Burton 39), Alleycats 399 (G Davis 38); All Blacks 364 (M O'Connell 36, D Thatcher 36), XS Pins 368 (M Wickett 37, C Ward 37). Still to play, Rockets v CEDS "A"; Back Scuttlers v Robins.

* There are two play-off games tonight to decide relegation.

Saints play Tearaways on Heenans Club with the losing side being relegated to Division Two.

Mayflower take on Fernhill Heath on Goodrest with the losers going down to Division Three.

Six-a-side final on Friday, May 2 on the Herefordshire House: 7.30pm Independents v Cradley Sports; 8.30pm Warlords "A" v Avengers or Westsiders "A" or "C" Siders "B". Please note first game to start at 7.30pm prompt.