IN THE first minute Ashley Hughes' intended pass to Matt Stimpson was intercepted on route and the ball somehow found its way into the back of Knutsford's net.

It was an embarrassing goal at least but more importantly it was a disastrous start that Knutsford never recovered from.

Passes went astray in the strong wind and there was hardly a tackle worth talking about.

The tricky Howard Clayton was upended in the box in the 30th minute but just when Knutsford were in need of a lifeline Jimmy Evans missed the resulting penalty.

There was a marginal improvement in the second half with substitute Adam Beesley going close on a couple of occasions and a looping header by Evans was flicked away from the top corner by goalkeeper Sellers at the last minute.

Knutsford enjoyed more possession but home team goalkeeper Swann was by far the busier goalkeeper overall.

With eight minutes remaining, Knutsford at last found a breakthrough.

Clayton had a shot saved from point-blank range but Thorp snapped up the rebound for his third goal in the last two games.

Knutsford's joy was short-lived however when Sale scored the winning goal in the dying minutes.

A hurriedly taken free kick failed to reach its target and the visitors took full advantage.

Youngster Nathan Deeley was brushed off the ball 20 yards out and although Mellor's shot was initially well saved by Swann, the ball looped high in the air before dropping into the net with one bounce.

On Saturday the A team are away to Wythenshawe Amateurs, kick off is at 2pm