MIDDLEWICH Town FC are back on top of Mid Cheshire League Division One following a 2-0 win at home to Knutsford.

But the table paints a slightly skewed picture as Town are only one point ahead of second placed Barnton who have four games in hand.

And Middlewich missed their big chance to claw back some of those points in midweek when Knutsford held Barnton to a 1-1 draw.

Sadly Town were beaten 3-0 at home by bottom of the table Golborne Sports, a result that has left them struggling for points and rapidly running out of games.

But they kept a measure of pressure on Barnton with the 2-0 win over Knutsford on Saturday.

Knutsford were the better team in the opening 30 minutes and enjoyed the territorial advantage through much of the second period.

But Middlewich were the much more effective side and posed a greater threat in front of goal.

And they took the lead five minutes before half time when Lee Murphy headed home a deep free kick.

After the break Knutsford tried to get back into the game and Town keeper Barry Crellin was called into action to save from a Paul Fry header.

Middlewich, not content with a one goal lead, went on the attack and got their reward minutes later.

Joey Roberts was on hand to head home a cross from the left wing.

Town then had Dave Shore sent off for a second bookable offence, but they were able to hold out until full time to record a much-needed win.

l MIDDLEWICH Town Reserves are closing in on the Mid Cheshire Reserves Division title for the second season running.

Town, who drew 1-1 on Saturday, are now just four points behind top of the table Daten Reserves, but have three games in hand.