RAMSBOTTOM crowned their first season in the North West Counties' League with a tremendous victory over Cheadle Town to win the Second Division Cup at The Anchor.

Though both sides began nervously, Ramsbottom steadied themselves to dominate the second half and fully deserved to win. It could have been more but for Martin Hulme being brought down in the 84th minute when clean through, a foul which got Cheadle captain Warren Brierley sent off.

"This is fantastic for the club in our first season playing North West Counties football," said a jubilant Ramsbottom secretary John Maher.

"We have worked hard all season and the manager, Ken Bridge, has done a terrific job.

"Everyone associated with the club is ecstatic.

"To win a trophy in your first season in a higher division is a marvellous achievement."

Mel Burke set the wheels in motion in the 25th minute when he took advantage of confusion in the penalty area after a long throw from Neil Rhodes and fired home from close range.

On the stroke of half-time Cheadle grabbed an equaliser when Mark Henshaw converted from a corner kick that should have been cleared.

But in the second half Ramsbottom brought the wide men, Mark Keegan and Martin Hulme, into play and immediately assumed control.

In the 76th minute Phil Rose reacted quickest in the box to score the winner and send Ramsbottom fans into raptures.

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