Barnton...1

FROM the start of this keenly fought local Mid-Cheshire League the tempo was frantic.

Referee Mr Bartlett found himself busy quelling the gusto of Knutsford and Barnton players as local pride took over.

Knutsford introduced young 'A' team goalkeeper Jamie Mottershead for his first senior start of the season and the youngster played with confidence and solidity.

The visitors are seeking their fourth successive league title, but Knutsford were seeking something that no other Mid-Cheshire League club has managed in recent memory - a fourth successive win against Barnton.

The Northwich club deservedly took the lead when Dave Dale escaped the home defence to score.

In the second-half it was different as Knutsford reverted to an effective shorter passing game.

It was certainly no more than the Reds deserved when Paul Fry turned smartly to fire a low equalising shot beyond the visiting goalkeeper.

Leigh sent a header screaming past an upright, Dow was felled by Hawley inside the box, but penalty appeals were turned away and Fry missed a golden opportunity.

The introduction of Ryan Barnhill sparked the home side further as he immediately weaved his way into opposing territory and slid the ball square to Nick Hall.

Unfortunately the full-back placed an excellent chance wide and left Barnton more happy with a point than Knutsford.

On Saturday Knutsford are away for the first time at Crewe FC. Kick off 3pm.

On Wednesday May 2, they travel to Cheadle Heath Nomads. Kick off 6.30pm.

TEAM: Mottershead, Hall, Alan Brown, I Habershon, Leigh, Stevens, Masheder (Burnett 65 minutes) J Habershon, Hartley (Barnhill 85 minutes) Fry, Hitchen (Dow 55 minutes.)

CLOSE ENCOUNTER: Knutsford deserved more than a point from their match against Barnton on Saturday