Ramsbottom United claimed comfortable three points on the road at South Liverpool, winning 4-0 thanks to goals from Corey Stacey, Tom Hoyle, Harvey Whyte and Oumar Camara.
The victory saw the Rams tighten their grip on third place in the NWCFL Premier Division table - now seven points clear of fourth-placed Padiham with only four to play.
On the banks of the River Mersey, both teams came flying out of blocks on an artificial pitch that allowed for an increased tempo to the game.
Both sides exchanged numerous chances in the opening moments.
However, it was Ramsbottom who took the lead through midfielder Stacey, his shot from the six-yard area brushing past Liverpool keeper Lucas Allan.
Despite sitting in 20th place with a potential relegation looming, South Liverpool played with quality in the midfield areas and huge endeavour in attack and a corner nearly flew directly into the net, with only Andre Mendes’ fingertips keeping out a certain equaliser.
As the half drew to a close, Steve Wilkes’ side got the game back under control and nearly doubled their lead through Camara. After a nice interchange of play between Hoyle and Maine Walder down the left-hand side, Camara’s eventual shot trickled wide of the post.
The second 45 minutes showed why Rammy are still in the hunt to win the league title. A brilliant attacking display saw three goals scored and three well-earned points.
In the 51st minute, Hoyle doubled the lead after fine work by striker Camara.
The number nine proved to be the greatest threat in the second half causing havoc for Martin Ryman’s side. Shortly after Hoyle’s finish, Camara appealed for a penalty, but referee Craig Andrews waved away the appeals.
Looking to kill off the game, Harvey Hayhurst also tried his luck, yet Allan was firmly behind the strike.
In the 81st minute, Camara got his just rewards, winning a penalty that substitute Harvey Whyte converted.
As the game ran to its conclusion, Camara was on target for his 13th goal of the season, netting Rammy a well-deserved fourth goal.
Rammy can still conceivably win the league outright, however, will need some much deserved luck along the way.
Manager Steve Wilkes was a happy man after the game and said: “It was a thoroughly professional performance from start to finish.
“To make five changes from the starting XI on Saturday and win so convincingly, shows the depth and quality we have in the squad.
“Apart from them hitting the crossbar at 2-0, we dominated from start to finish.
“A special mention to the fans who travelled over to Liverpool on a Wednesday night. Once again they’ve done the lads proud.
“We now move on to another tough game on Saturday away at Prestwich.”
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