Knutsford 2 Bolton 2

A TWO-GOAL lead with time running out proved not enough for Knutsford as they surrendered a share of the points to high-flying Bolton.

Mat Hodge notched either side of the break for the Black Knights, but Iain Lawrence turned past his own keeper before the visitors levelled late on.

Knutsford took a lead heading into the interval when Hodge was able to force home from the centre of the area.

The home team pressed Bolton’s defence high up the pitch while a front three of Jonny Price, Hodge and Tom Howard enjoyed space in behind from Knutsford’s aerial attack.

Man of the match Simon Trenbirth was able to distribute the ball in advanced areas of the pitch, firing off bullets when Stuart Kenyon allowed.

A series of short corners after the interval saw Trenbirth hit both uprights; the rebound fell kindly to Howard, but he was unable to get the necessary height on his close range effort to beat the keeper.

Knutsford’s back three were well-organised, building a platform on which Knutsford were able to add their second when Hodge completed a personal double.

However with 10 minutes remaining Lawrence turned a speculative cross into his own net, leaving keeper Jason Punshon with no chance.

And before long the visitors equalised after Knutsford gave away cheap possession.

Knutsford’s thirds travelled to promotion-seeking Crewe Vagrants’ thirds on Saturday, losing 5-2.

Pete Oakley gave Knutsford the lead with an adroit finish after two minutes, putting the hosts on the back foot.

However Crewe reached the break 3-1 up following a rally.

Knutsford scored again through Graham Heath following a short corner, but Vagrants were always on top.