No-one tipped us, reckon St Georges

But they reckon their title credentials will be tested to the maximum in the next two weeks.

The Telford-based side are now six points clear of an increasingly-congested top division which shows no signs of throwing up a runaway force.

Just three points cover fifth-placed Newport down to Chester Road in 10th.

St Georges head second-placed Meole Brace after beating Wem USC 10-4, but travel to third-placed Bowring and then host champions Newport in their next two outings.

Spokesman Glyn Picknell said: "The league is so tight – any one from four or five teams can win it, including Newport themselves.

"After 10 or 11 games, it's normally sewn up but anyone can win it this year and that can only be good for Shropshire bowls.

"Most sides think St Georges can't win it. I'd be surprised if anyone tipped us before the season and I'd be surprised if anyone tipped us now!

"But we're top for a reason – we're playing well and as long as we continue to pick up points, there's no reason why we can't stay there."

However, Picknell expects their staying power as top dogs will be sorely tested. He said: "We've got Bowring away on Friday and that will be our biggest test – they're a very good home team.

"Newport are still a very good side even though they've lost some players, so after the next two Fridays we'll have a better idea of where we're going to finish."

Andy Morgan, who returned from Bowring at the start of this season, was named most valuable player after picking up the equal biggest win.

He beat Fred Bailey to 10, matching captain Tony Rhodes and Dave King, who held sway over Graham Dulson and Curtis Metcalfe respectively.

Picknell said: "Andy was our best player on the night, by a million miles. He seems to be full of confidence and it's good for the side."