RAMSBOTTOM picked up their third win of the week and a sixth straight success in April to cement second spot in the Vodkat League Premier Division.

But the exertions of play-ing so many games in such a short space of time is beginning to show as the Rams managed to gain another three points despite a jaded performance.

The free-flowing football which has been evident for much of the season was barely in evidence but Alsager could not capitalise. The Rams started brightly enough with Lee Gaskell twice going close while Jon Robinson was inches wide with a header.

And they took the lead in the 16th minute when Jack Egan had his heels clipped in the box and Mark Drew promptly netted from the spot. Despite the early surge, the home side seemed to go off the boil – although Robinson was unlucky to see his shot blocked by team-mate Mark Sharples.

The Rams looked tired and sluggish after the break and only sealed victory two minutes from time when Adam Berrisford scored with a well struck effort.