rain washed away West Indian Association's slim hopes of sharing the title.

Forties, needing only a draw to make certain of the title for the fifth time, achieved their goal when their match against Sandys Sports Club at the Royal Naval Field was abandoned early in the west enders' innings.

WIA's game against Pembroke United, reduced to 34 overs a side because of rain after a late start, was also called off with WIA well set to pull off victory despite playing two short.

The other scheduled match, between Devonshire Stars and North Village, was postponed until August 29, the day WIA meet Sandys in the League Cup final at Nationals.

Forties elected to bat after winning the toss but were far from impressive in totalling 203 for nine, highlighted by a half century by in-form opener Gary Edwards and an unbeaten 39 by wicketkeeper Neil Speight. Skipper Terry Corday took three for 62 from 14 overs.

Edwards' 65, which contained seven fours, was his sixth league half century of the season.

Sandys, who ended Forties' League Cup hopes, replied with seven for no wicket in one over -- including a huge six by Paul Ross -- before rain intervened.

WIA had reached 31 without loss in six overs in pursuit of Pembroke United's 125 for eight when heavy rain halted play.

Hunyadi Vidal, a 21-year-old offspinner, was the pick of the WIA attack with three for 15.

This Sunday WIA meet Sandys in the first of three successive weekend clashes between the clubs. Sunday's final league match will be followed by the League Cup final and the clubs will then take on each other again the following Sunday in the first round of the Knockout.