RAMSBOTTOM manager Mike Kelly is ready to take a couple of weeks off - although his end of season party might be delayed.

The Rams are involved in Bolton's Hospital Cup and were set to face Atherton Town in the quarter-final of the competition last night.

The final is at the Reebok on May 14 - so despite having only two games left of the NWCL Division One season, the Rams could be training for longer.

"I am looking forward to a spell off but we will have to see what happens," said the Rams manager.

"It is a presigious competition, which we were invited to play in it and there is a big reward at the end of it.

"We are the favourites to win as we are playing against sides from lower leagues and that puts a bit of pressure on us.

"Saying that, it would be great to play at the Reebok but we'll see how far we can get."

It has been a mixed season for the Rams as they look set to finish in a mid-table position after a stunning season last term when the late Ken Bridge led them to third spot.

"It has been an up and down season and I knew we were never going to win the league. Things have changed and a few players have left," admitted Kelly.

"But for the last three months we have been better. Perhaps we have drawn a few too many but these have been against the top sides."

Kelly will spend his first summer as gaffer looking around for players to add to his squad.

"I will be having a look at things over summer as you always have to try and improve. If a better player comes along in a certain position, then I will bring him in as it is for the benefit of the club.

"I am though first going to have a few weeks off. It has been a long ten months of hard work."

Ramsbottom travel to Flixton tomorrow before finishing their season at Newcastle Town on Monday.

Steve Orrell and Steve Brennan are unavailable tomorrow while star striker Russell Brierley will be rested as he strives to recover from a knee injury.