LOSTOCK Reserves showed the way by inflicting Curshaws’ first defeat and book their place in the quarter finals of the Crewe FA Cup.

Their hosts had not lost in any competition this season but tripped up 1-0 on Saturday. The Grey Lambs opened the scoring within 15 minutes, Bryning slotting home from the edge of the area after good work from Douglas. Gibbon had two close attempts and Birdsey headed just over from a free kick in a first half dominated by Lostock.

After the break Douglas nearly doubled the lead but headed against the crossbar from close range. Man-of-the-match was Paul Lightfoot.

A five-goal tussle in Cheshire League One proved closer than current league form would suggest.

Middlewich Town, who now sit in fifth place, four higher than their hosts Witton Reserves, came out better with a 3-2 win. Mike Brandon put Middlewich up but Tim Drohan’s free kick levelled quickly. Drohan then helped Witton take the lead.

After the break, Steve Warburton’s shot deflected in off the keeper before Andy Whitney won it. Stalybridge v Barnton was postponed.

Saturday December 22: One – Barnton v Garswood United; Two – Lostock v Malpas.

The Crewe and District League resumes on January 5.

In the Northwich Leisure League, GSE moved to top spot as they eased past inconsistent LA Fitness with a 3-1 win. They took full advantage of a slip by previous leaders Ice, who succumbed 3-0 to FC United of Northwich. Nick Wakefield put in a superb display.

Norfolk N Chance stay third after a one-goal win over Weaver Hangova FC, who remain deep in trouble.

In Division One, Crossfield remain a solid six points clear as Mark Spruce helped them to a 3-0 win over Windsor Wizards. Second-placed FCAK had Andy Jones partly to thank for their 4-0 thumping of SC Northwich.

Jason Smith inspired Northwich Plumb Centre to a 9-0 romp over Allostock, while elsewhere Wilton Wanderers upset the form book and belied their struggling position to beat C&G FC 2-0.

Meanwhile, Winsford Ladies stayed top of the Cheshire and Manchester Women’s League with a 3-1 win over Chester.