IN A dramatic Marsden Cup clash, NWCL First Division Ramsbottom survived a stirring fightback from John Lister's Second Division side Colne.

"The game turned on two controversial refereeing decisions in the last 15 minutes," said Colne chairman Dave Blacklock.

His side had come back from 2-0 down to 2-2 when, with 15 minutes left, Ramsbottom were awarded a penalty after a foul by Colne keeper Ross Baxter.

Then Colne defender Gareth West was sent off for his second yellow for retaliation, an incident which sparked a 20-man melee.

"In our view Ross got the ball first then the man," said Blacklock. "Sadly the referee didn't see it that way."

David Yorke-Robinson scored from the spot and within minutes they also held a man advantage too.

Colne defender Gareth West was handed a second yellow card after reacting to a foul and sparking a 20-man melee.

"The scoreline doesn't do justice to our lads. The game only turned on those two critical decisions," added Blacklock.

Earlier, Ramsbottom went ahead through Steve Shiel and Brad Franks.

But after the break Colne substitute Ben Callon -- back after injury -- inspired a fightback.

Paul Files converted a Callon cross, then Chris Ingham took advantage of a defensive error to score from 25 yards.

David Yorke-Robinson scored from the spot and then Ramsbottom used their one-man advantage to score two more with goals from Steve Orrell and a Beckham-style free kick from Jamie Taylor.

RESULT: COLNE...2 RAMSBOTTOM...5

ROSSENDALE are away at Flixton in the Lancashire FA Marsden Trophy tonight.