IN the battle against relegation from the league's Division One, there was a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel for Chester rivals Christleton and Upton AA.

Both pulled off big wins and boosted their chances of survival.

A solitary effort from Christleton's Joel Douglas ensured that Maghull's celebratory champagne stayed uncorked, while battling Upton AA binned another vital three points, after Adam Kelly plundered the game's only goal against Ashville.

It was another bad day for reigning champions Heswall, who had Andy Brown (2) on target, but capitulated 3-2 to replies from West Kirby's Ian Brunt, Lee Gibson and Thomas Murray.

Despite a fine opportunist effort from young Elliot Toner bottom club Mallaby suffered their 12th defeat of the season after goals from Chris Sheppard and John Murphy clinched a 2-1 result for Newton.

Tommy Hughes, Callum Kelly, Tom Ferro and Danny Ventre were the marksmen, as Southport Trinity blitzed Cammell Laird Reserves 4-1, and a sparkling double from Simon Andrews inspired Chester Nomads to a 3-0 decision over Vauxhall Motors Reserves.

Big guns Richmond Raith Rovers and Gateacre village finished 1-1 in Division Two's match of the day, and that allowed third-placed Helsby to close ground, thanks to a 3-2 success at Willaston.

Reece Conlon, Adam Collins and Matty Johnston were the main men.

Two goals from Mike Banks and a Nick Sheppard effort were enough as Capenhurst Villa turned on of their many games in hand into points, with a 3-1 victory over Heswall Reserves.

Mersey Royal gave it their best shot and scored through Craig Read before going down 2-1 to replies from Bebington Athletic's Tom Charters and Mark Lake.

Manor Athletic's promotion chances took the knock, after they lost 2-0 at Prescot Cables Reserves. Mike Garside and Ryan Crooke obliged for the hosts.