DUNCAN Warrender’s hat-trick hauled 10-man Knutsford back into a game they seemed set to lose.

The flame-haired front runner kept his cool in the dying seconds to score from the spot and earn Reds a share of the spoils their endeavour had deserved.

“We showed great determination and were worth a point,” said manager Scott Hardie.

He feared the worst when Steve Hunt waltzed past two defenders before clipping a smart finish over Scott Harrison to hand the hosts an early advantage.

Warrender issued a warning when his snapshot cracked the upright, but it was not heeded and he was on hand to convert Ollie Jones’ assist on 25 minutes.

But Knutsford’s defensive shortcomings cost them again before the break, this time Rob Hanley punishing slack marking to make it 2-1.

They bounced back, Warrender scoring a repeat of his first goal after turning sharply on a loose ball inside the penalty area.

But the visitors thought their luck had run out when youngster Harrison was sent off with a quarter hour left after Hanley took an unconvincing tumble inside the box.

Not expecting even a penalty, Reds were raging at his shock dismissal.

Steve Jenyons parried Hanley’s spot kick, but Greenalls grabbed the lead soon afterwards when Gareth Johns scooped home a set piece.

Warrender was to have the last laugh though, dusting himself down to convert a penalty of his own after a defender had halted his progress illegally inside the area.

It takes his tally to five goals from three appearances, making him one of the most sought-after players in the Cheshire League’s top tier.

Sub Tom Kendrick almost nicked a late winner, but his free kick was stopped on the line by the keeper using an outstretched boot.

Knutsford Harrison (GK), Taviner (Kendrick 55), Howard, Hurley, Faulkner, Scott, Jenyons, Beattie, Thaker, Jones, Warrender
Subs not used Bailey, Thorpe, Boumara