LOUGHTON have slipped right into title winning contention just when it matters most.

Mike Hughes' men go into the final weekend of the 2008 season top of the tree in Division Two after Fives slipped-up at Shenfield, which allowed them to hit the summit after a comprehensive ten-wicket win at Hadleigh.

That result has given them a narrow four point lead over both Fives and Walthamstow, who sit in joint second, and a win over mid-table Harold Wood would see them crowned champions.

Even a draw for the Uplands outfit would probably see them promoted, as both Fives and Walthamstow go head-to-head at the Paddock, so Hughes will certainly be hoping there isn't one final twist left in the season with an unthinkable defeat possibly costing them everything.