KNUTSFORD'S bowlers had too small a total to defend on Saturday during a three-wicket defeat at Bowdon Vale in the Cheshire Alliance Division Two Cup.

The visitors recovered from 21-5 to 111 all out thanks to 16-year-old Muhsin Ali's half-century.

Wicket-keeper Mohsin Hussain (19) was the only other batsman to reach double-figures, Ian Willson taking three wickets in six overs - costing a single run - for the home team.

They wobbled slightly at 66-5, in part due to Adeel Bhatti (4-25) leading Knutsford's resistance, before making it to their target in the 30th over.

Knutsford seconds recovered from a slow start to beat Appleton thirds by seven wickets in their cup clash.

The visitors to Mereheath Lane collapsed to 136 all out after reaching 97 without loss, Asumon Ahmed (6-9) ripping through their batting order.

New captain Rob Vaughan (69no) and Asad Shah (29no) then shared in an unbroken 91-run partnership to ease their side to victory at 137-3.

They host their Holmes Chapel counterparts this weekend, from 1pm.