RAMSBOTTOM moved to within two points of the NWCL first division safety zone - with three games in hand - as they extended their recent run to two wins and a draw from the last three games.

The Rams made a nervous start and it was Winsford who created the first chance of the game, Paul Lamb's effort came back off the post and Les Miranda's shot from the rebound sailed way over the bar.

Gradually the Rams got to grips with the game and it was they who opened the scoring on 15 minutes.

Former Huddersfield midfielder Doni Clarke's excellent through ball found ex-Rossendale winger Gareth Gardner, who was starting his first full game for the club. His shot found the bottom corner giving Robertson in goal no chance.

It was Gardner who again went close on 32 minutes firing just wide of the upright as the Rams continued to take the game to Winsford.

It was to be a mistake by the Rams skipper Ged Walsh on 40 minutes that got Winsford back into the game. He lost the ball on the edge of the box and the ball found its way to Lamb.

He gave Marsh in goal no chance with a powerful shot into the corner to make the scores level going into half time.

Ramsbottom came out for the second half looking to continue the good work of the first.

Fitton was beginning to get more of the ball and it was his great cross which led to the Rams' second goal. Robertson, the Winsford keeper, clearly fouled Barker to give the Rams a penalty.

Clarke strode up and confidently placed the ball into the corner to put the Rams 2-1 up.

Ramsbottom continued to pass the ball and were creating many openings, and another great cross by Fitton on 54 minutes found Barker who headed narrowly wide of the target.

Winsford were then awarded a free kick out on the left hand side. Heywood's cross was headed against the crossbar by Miranda after some slack defending by the Rams.

Ramsbottom went deservedly 3-1 up in the 58th minute. Another good cross from Fitton found Barker, this time the striker chested the ball down and volleyed it into the top corner.

Ramsbottom's midfield now dominated the game on what was a very heavy surface.

They could have easily added to the scoreline, and this was a very solid performance from a rejuvenated Rams team.

Overall they controlled the game and this result should give them confidence for the remainder of the season.

WINSFORD UTD...1

RAMSBOTTOM UTD...3