WITTON Albion missed the chance to move out of the Northern Premier League relegation zone this evening.

Carl Macauley's side could not make it back-to-back victories, going down to a 1-0 defeat at Cheshire neighbours Nantwich Town.

They had the ball in the net early as Jesse Dowling converted James Lawrie's cross, but he was denied by an offside flag.

Northwich Guardian:

Jesse Dowling thinks he's scored for Witton, but the linesman's flag in the distance denies him. Picture by Karl Brooks Photography

Albion stopper Greg Hall then made a big save from Jamie Morgan before Albion hit the woodwork, with Lawrie's corner missing everybody and crashing off the crossbar.

The decisive goal came just after the hour mark, with Dan Cockerline pouncing to lift the ball over Hall after Josh Wardle had misread a pass over the top.

It means Nantwich move out of immediate danger while Witton remain in the drop zone, three points adrift of safety.

Meanwhile, 1874 Northwich's winless run stretched to five games in the NPL West after they were beaten at Ramsbottom United.

Greens trailed at half time thanks to John Murphy's goal, with Rams substitute Aaron Flemming sealing a 2-0 win for his side late on.

74 sit 13th in the table, with their hosts moving level on points with them following Tuesday's result.