RAMSBOTTOM UNITED will plead guilty to the charge of illegally approaching five Rossendale United players.

Dale manager Jim McCluskie accused Rams coach Chris Willcocks, a former Rossendale United player, of talking to some of his reserve team players without giving the required seven days' notice.

Willcocks admitted the charge during showdown talks with Ramsbottom chiefs at the Riverside ground on Saturday.

Rams manager Mike Kelly said: "Chris wasn't aware of the rules and he admitted that he had spoken to some players he used to be at Rossendale with.

"The matter has been dealt with internally - he has been given a kick up the backside!"

Ramsbottom must write to the Lancashire FA in response to the allegations.

"A letter has been drafted and we will plead guilty," said Kelly.

Ramsbottom play Flixton at home tonight, weather permitting, and former Rossendale United centre half Mike Smith could make his return to the side after re-joining the North West Counties first division club.

Kelly is also tracking the Colwyn Bay player Gary Lewis, who had a spell with Clitheroe last season.

"Gary is a left-sided player who assures me he can play anywhere.

"He is having some problems with the travelling to Colwyn Bay and in the UniBond League generally.

"And I don't think that will be the end of the new faces."

ALSO in action tonight, Bacup Borough face Castleton Gabriels in NWCL Division Two.

GREAT Harwood's NWCL Division One clash against Maine Road at the Showground last night fell victim to the weather.