RAMSBOTTOM'S recent revival continued as Ken Bridge's men confidently dispatched basement outfit Atherton LR. The visitors almost surprised United in the opening exchanges with a lightning break but Mike Kelly produced a fine save from Steve Cunningham.

United soon gained the upper hand, though, as a Karl Brown header flew just wide then Tom O'Hanlon cleared off the line from Russell Brierley.

Seconds later, Dave Roach's 25-yard drive came back off the post.

But on 19 minutes they finally broke the deadlock when Brierley connected with Brendan O'Shaughnessy's cross.

Atherton continued to work hard and a snap-shot from Chris Brooks brought another fine save from Kelly.

But Ramsbottom went two up on 41 minutes when David Yorke-Robinson snapped up a half clearance and fired a fierce drive past Mark Winstanley from 20 yards.

With a two-goal cushion, Ramsbottom made a confident start to the second half, forcing Winstanley into another diving save after a slick four-man move.

Brierley's first time volley from Yorke-Robinson's cross flew inches over before Steve Brennan slotted home number three midway through the half after Winstanley could only parry Brierley's shot.

Atherton searched for a consolation goal but determined defending by skipper Warren Brierley, back after missing six games due to suspension, and his central defensive partner Neil Wallace gave nothing away.

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