RAMS 2-1 FC ISLE OF MAN

A match that looked as though it was going to be a comfortable first win of the season for Ramsbottom turned out to be an absolute thriller thanks to two goals in injury time.

In the end goals from full back Maine Walder and midfielder Conal Gallagher were enough for the home side to get their first three points on the board.

Rammy started the game fast and within three minutes had found themselves ahead. Breaking quickly down the right hand side, Owen Collinge played a sensational ball across the face of goal where Maine Walder was waiting at the back post to smash home from around 10 yards.

The hosts didn’t show any signs of slowing down in the opening stages of the game and on 15 minutes Tom Walker had a great chance to double his side’s lead but his effort from the edge of the box was marginally wide.

Isle of Man gradually began to work themselves into the game and Ryan Hamer was called into action on 31 minutes making a wonderful save to deny the visitors.

The Rams went into the break having seen much more of the ball and enjoying the better chances on goal.

As the second half began the home side looked eager to put the game to bed as Harvey Whyte had a superb volley saved on 48 minutes.

Rammy continued to try their luck and with 25 minutes left of the match Maine Walder was extremely unfortunate to not get his and his side’s second of the evening as he smashed a fantastic effort against the crossbar.

As the second period progressed Ramsbottom continued to knock on the door but it was to no avail. Then on 90 minutes the thing the Rammy faithful had seen all too often last season happened again as the visitors managed to pull themselves level through a fantastic freekick from 30 yards. Dean Pinnington smashed his attempt with a knuckleball and there was absolutely nothing that Ryan Hamer could do.

Then, just as it looked to be all over, up stepped the Rams savior Conal Gallagher. Richard Whittingham played a marvellous through ball setting Gallagher clear who, as cool as you like, slotted past the on-rushing ‘keeper to give Rammy a very much deserved three points.

RAMSBOTTOM UNITED: Hamer, Radcliffe, Walder, Walker, Forbes, Black (c), Collinge (Lockett), Jackson (Whittingham), Dudley, Whyte (Gallagher), Jenkins (Rigby)

Sub not used: Greenwood