DESPITE a fine goal from Mike Hayes, Ellesmere Port forfeited ground in the race for the Division One title on Saturday.

A reply from Joe Johnson earned visitors Christleton a share of the spoils in a 1-1 draw at Whitby Sports and Social Club.

Vauxhall Motors Reserves posted a superb 4-1 win at Heswall. Two-goal Tommy Carroll played the anchor role, while singles from Anthony Price and Robbie Jones completed the statistics.

The result was Motors’ fifth win of the season, and lifted them five points clear of bottom club Ashville.

Capenhurst Villa’s promotion credentials in Division Two were questioned once again, following a disappointing 2-1 defeat at Helsby.

Nick Askey plundered both goals for the hosts, while an own goal was Cape’s paltry contribution.

Cape’s second string had no such goal scoring problems in their Division Three tussle with Upton AA Reserves and emerged deserved 6-0 victors.

Steve Sales fired a three-goal salvo and was joined on the scoresheet by John Lyth (2) and Ian Kelly. Ellesmere Port Reserves were second best at improving newcomers Richmond Raith Rovers, who edged a 2-0 decision.

Vauxhall Motors Reserves face their third Division One title contenders in succession on Saturday, and this time it’s third-placed Chester challengers Upton AA, who are the visitors to Rivacre Park.

Castrol Social will hopefully return to winning ways at the expense of Aintree Villa, while Ellesmere Port and Marine Reserves come together at Whitby Sports and Social in what is sure to be a closely contested affair.

Ashville Reserves can expect few favours from Willaston in Division Two, but Capenhurst Villa will have to up their game, if they are to achieve a result against a well-drilled West Kirby Reserves outfit.

It will also be a test of resolve for Grange Athletic at free-scoring Chester Nomads.

Following their destruction of Upton AA Reserves in Division Three, Capenhust Villa Reserves will be relishing the prospect of another three points at struggling Shaftesbury.

On the other hand, Ellesmere Port Reserves will find second-placed Manor Athletic difficult to keep out.