RAMSBOTTOM United will hope to play their FA Vase first round game against Consett at the second attempt tonight, after the fixture fell foul of a waterlogged pitch at the weekend.

Derek Egan's side have already had to make alternative plans for a league game as they should have travelled to Skelmersdale United tonight, who, ironically, they will face if they reach the second round.

Another postponement today would force the Vase game to be carried over to Saturday, meaning Ramsbottom would have to forego their league clash with Newcastle Town.

"Fingers crossed the game will go ahead. I believe the pitch was fine on Sunday and there was a good weather forecast for today, so it should be fine," boss Egan said.

"We don't want to miss another league game on top of the one we should have had tonight because we're getting behind.

"We need to start getting points in the bag rather than games in hand."

However, Saturday's postponement did have its benefits as Ewan Purcell and Gareth Brooks were both doubtful for the weekend. But they will have a fitness test ahead of tonight's game at the Riverside (kick-off 7.45pm).

"Hopefully I will be able to include them tonight," said Egan, who has signed midfielder/ full back James Hoyle from Rossendale in time to include him in tonight's squad.