Oxton Parkonians 33 Knutsford 20

KNUTSFORD coach Geoff Crawford hailed his side’s most encouraging display to date, urging them to use it as an incentive in future weeks. 

They led twice at Oxton on Saturday, but were unable to hold on to record a first victory of 2015 in South Lancs/Cheshire Division Three.

“That’s the best we’ve played this season,” said Crawford.

“We should be able to build on it during the games we have left.”

Blues’ early dominance was rewarded when flanker Liam Boyle crashed over in the corner for an unconverted try.

The visitors continued to apply pressure, and crossed the whitewash for a second time when centre Ashley Parkinson finished off a flowing move between backs and forwards.

However, Knutsford’s 10-point lead appeared to spark Parkonians into life and the hosts ran in two unconverted tries along with a drop goal to establish a slender lead at the break.

The away team dominated the early exchanges in the second period, and were rewarded when Howard Dunkerley’s burst forward took him between the posts.

Alex Malcolm added a conversion, and shortly afterwards added a penalty to put Knutsford seven points in front.

However, in similar fashion to the first half, the home team responded.

Despite Blues keeping them at bay for long periods, they ran in three unconverted tries to clinch victory.

Knutsford host Isle of Man outfit Ramsey at Knutsford Academy on Saturday week, kick off 2.15pm.

The team continues to train at Booth’s Hall every Thursday, starting at 7.30pm.