Knutsford extend winning sequence to five matches thanks to late goals against Crewe

KNUTSFORD left it late to subdue stubborn opponents on Saturday, rising to second spot in the table as a reward.

Their lead felt flimsy until 10 minutes from time, when captain David Price converted a short corner to put distance between the Black Knights and their guests at Westfield Drive.

Star turn Max Berkeley, returning to the first team after playing for the club's second string the previous week, then teed up Mat Hodge to steer in a fourth goal.

A fifth successive win in North West Men's League Division Two leaves them two points adrift of leaders Keswick with five matches left.

They appeared on course to extend that sequence in comfort at the weekend, when Jonny Price supplied an assist for Hodge in the eighth minute.

He fired past Crewe's goalkeeper to put Knutsford ahead.

Instead they were indebted to Tom Adams, who expertly marshalled the home team's defence at the other end.

The improving visitors, who had won two of their previous three games, drew level from a set piece shortly after the interval.

Knutsford replied when Berkeley and Hodge combined to set up Tom Howard, who finished emphatically to establish a lead again.

And that was how it stayed until Price put away a short corner with time running out.

A testing trip to Formby seconds, unbeaten in their past half-dozen league fixtures, awaits this weekend.