KNUTSFORD’S netballers lost narrowly, by two goals, to Northwich Sapphires in the Warrington and District League’s latest round on Wednesday.

They continue to occupy third place in the Premier Division table though despite a 30-28 defeat following an end-to-end encounter.

There was some cheer for Knutsford when they defeated NW Wales 46-43 in the Cheshire Elite League on Saturday, rising to sixth in the standings as a reward.

Knutsford seconds thrashed their Saints counterparts in the Warrington League’s third tier, extending their winning sequence to a dozen matches during the winter season.

Their lead at the summit is worth 17 points as a result.

Knutsford thirds edged Warrington Town fifths 20-16 in the same section, keeping them in contention for the second automatic promotion position.

Results Cheshire Elite League Saturday: Chester 58 Ladyhawks 27; Merseyside Police 54 Cheshire Blue 29; NEWTS 38 Sandbach 39; NW Wales 43 Knutsford 46.

Fixtures Cheshire Elite League This Saturday (inc): Cheshire Yellow v Knutsford.

Warrington and District League Tonight, Wednesday, Premier Division Knutsford v Warrington Town 2nds. Division Two: Northwich Sapphires 3rds v Knutsford 2nds; Warrington Town 5ths v Knutsford 3rds.