RAMSBOTTOM got away from the pressure of the league for a week at least and put their local rivals Great Harwood, from the NWCL second division, to the sword in the Worthington Trophy.

First division Ramsbottom started brightly but it took until the 15th minute to create their first opening. A free kick taken by Dale Fielding was headed down to Scott Weir but his effort was well saved by Harris in the Harwood goal.

On 23 minutes Ramsbottom's Lomax managed to beat the offside trap and have a clear run on goal but Harris again produced a fine save to deny the Ramsbottom striker.

The Rams were having plenty of possession, but were just lacking that final pass to open Harwood's defence up.

On 40 minutes Ramsbottom's Liam Bowden had a shot cleared off the line by Great Harwood's Neil Baron.

The second half started with Great Harwood exerting some pressure on the Rams' back four. It also involved Simon Marsh being made to make his first save of the game. However, the Rams slowly stemmed the tide and began to take control of the game.

On 64 minutes Lomax should have opened the scoring for the Rams, but his attempted lob drifted just wide of the upright with the goal at his mercy.

On 72 minutes Dale Fielding, back from injury after a month out of the game, broke down the left hand side. His clear cross just eluded Matt Raywood at the back post.

On 75 minutes Rammy's Scott Weir was presented with a good opportunity but his effort ended up well wide.

The Rams deservedly took the lead on 83 minutes, Matt Raywood who has proved to be an excellent signing, shot from 25 yards out, the ball flew past Harris in goal to nestle in the top corner to put the Rams 1-0 up.

For the remaining seven minutes of the game the Rams continued to dominated, but could not add to the scoreline.

This wasn't the best game in the world, but for the Rams it was an important win to keep their good run going. Confidence is high and the lads are looking forward to Saturday's trip to top of the table Prescot Cables.

Harwood boss John Hughes was pleased with his side's defensive display.

"We've been leaking goals over recent weeks so to turn in a solid performance at the back against Ramsbottom was very pleasing.

"We held our own for 80 minutes but a late error ultimately cost us."

RAMSBOTTOM UTD...1 GREAT HARWOOD...0