KNUTSFORD’S footballers have an extra incentive to avoid a third successive league defeat this weekend.

They visit Warrington-based Eagle Sports, a side that last month ended their progress in the JB Parker Challenge Cup, one of a current run of four losses in a row.

Champions Reds still occupy top spot in the Cheshire League’s Division One table, although closest rivals Whaley Bridge have closed to within a point.

Both teams were denied a chance to score points on Saturday when their matches were postponed.

Paul Schofield’s men have reason to be optimistic for they have already twice beaten Eagle this term, although confidence has been shaken by exits from the Cheshire FA Amateur Cup and JB Parker Challenge Cup in the past month alone.

Whaley Bridge are at Pilkington.

Meanwhile goalkeeper Mark Higgs and midfield man Dean Warburton were on duty for the Cheshire League last night in their North West Inter League Cup semi final first leg clash with their Lancashire & Cheshire League counterparts.

In the Altrincham and District Amateur League, Knutsford recorded back-to-back wins against Egerton after a 5-2 success at Mereheath Lane.

Five different scorers – Scott Beattie, Mark Evans, Dean Hou, Joe Woolley and Joel Wilbraham – were on target for Brian Deeley’s men, who climb to seventh place in Division One after four matches without defeat.

They host AFC Quarry this weekend, while Egerton entertain Sale Moore.