RIBCHESTER continued their impressive start to the season, but while the result was convincing, they could have ended the day sharing the points against a spirited Calderstones side who battled every inch of the way.

Unlike the first two outings, Ribchester took the game to the opposition right from the off and with Green and Hollingsworth impressive down the centre, supported by Parkinson and Anthony attacking down the flanks, they soon created a number of gilt-edged chances.

Unfortunately, their finishing failed to match their approach play and it was left to their defender, Walsh, to show the forwards the way, forcing the ball over the line following Clayton's looping cross.

Calderstones keeper then pulled off a string of excellent saves to frustrate Ribchester, but he had to rely on the woodwork to keep them at bay when Green's thunderous strike hit the underside of the bar and bounced to safety.

At 1-0 Ribchester were never safe and they nearly paid dearly early in the second half when an excellent effort from Calderstones was somehow tipped over hy Cookson.

Ribchester responded positively, but could not convert possession into goals although Southworth went close when his powerful header skimmed the bar. It was Southworth who eventually increased the lead in typical fashion with a clinical header from Anthony's accurate corner.

With time running out and Calderstones forced to attack, Ribchester wrapped up proceedings courtesy of another set piece. Talbot's long throw was flicked on by Clayton and when Southworth's header was only parried by the keeper, Hollingsworth was on hand to follow up with an easy tap-in. Man of the match was Anthony.

Ribchester take a break from league duty on Saturday when they play host to Leyland Town in the first round of the Hollands Amateur Challenge Shield.

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