ONWARDS and upwards - that's Ramsbottom United after they clinched the North West Counties League Second Division championship on Saturday.

Goals from two Steves - Orrell and Davis - gave United a crucial 2-0 victory at Oldham Town and that was enough to pip Haslingden to the title on goal difference.

Town were desperate for a win themselves to avoid having to apply for re-election but there was no way they were going to deny the valley club on the biggest day in their history.

It's a superb achievement for the ambitious Rams, in only their second season in the NWCL, and delighted boss Ken Bridge was quick to praise all concerned after Saturday's triumph.

"I couldn't ask any more from the players this season they've been absolutely superb," he said.

"Here at Ramsbottom we are a team off the park as well as on it and that has been a major factor in the club's success.

"Now we plan for next season and from what I've seen of the higher division I'm sure we'll do OK."

The Rams, written off for the championship a few short weeks ago, ended the season with a run of six consecutive victories.

On Thursday (May 15), the NWCL ground grading committee took a look at the Riverside's new floodlights and hopes are high that the club will give the thumbs-up to their rise up the non-league ladder.

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