LOWLY Cestrian Alex put up a strong fight before going down 2-1 at home to Premier Division leaders Blacon YC Reserves.

Brendan Gerrard and Steve Price kept the table-toppers on course for the title while Darren Jones responded.

Blacon were boosted by news of second-placed Tarporley Vics' 2-1 tumble at Duddon United where a Ben Briscoe goal was in vain as Sean Roberts and Richard Jones fired the hosts home.

John Roberts hit a hat-trick in Chester Nomads Seconds' 4-3 home win over Kydds Athletic while Ray Prior and Peter Wheeler were on the mark for Hoole Rangers as they saw off Newton Athletic 2-1.

Barrow Athletic were no match for Team High-field as they lost 4-1 to goals from Adam Langton, Lee Cooke, Andy Bale and Gary Ellams.

Waggon and Horses beat Brewery Arms 2-1.

Team Highfield Seconds maintained their challenge at the top of Division One with a 2-0 success at Blacon Youth A. Ryan Roddy and Scott Broad-bent got their goals.

Third-placed Tarvin Athletic were the division's highest scorers, winning 6-0 at Runcorn Albion with goals from John Winker (3), Andy Woodward (2) and John Wyatt.

Chester Nomads Thirds were humbled 4-0 at Castrol Social and Bebington eased to a 3-0 triumph at Barrow Athletic Seconds.

A Billy Lawrenson treble was the highlight of Kelsall's 5-0 win at Aston Lions, while John MacKay bagged a brace for Rangers Brakes as they lost 3-2 to Crossway.

Aaron Edwards (2) and Karl Mackie netted for Crossway.