RAMSBOTTOM United stormed back to the top of the North West Counties League Premier Division on Tuesday in what turned out the be the perfect night.

They laid seige to the Alsager goal in what was such a one-sided match the home side did not manage a shot on target until the 89th minute.

Before then, Rammy boosted their goal difference with two goals from rejuvenated striker Jon Robinson, and strikes from Dominic Smalley, substitute Ryan Moore and the obligatory goal from Lee Gaskell – his 10th in 10 matches since returning from injury.

The win put them three points clear of Runcorn Town, and the winning margin gave them a three-goal advantage over the second-placed side, who have a game in hand.

A good night was made even better with the news that long-time league leaders Bootle had lost 2-0 at home to AFC Blackpool, opening up a six-point gap between Rammy and the third-placed team.

The big win carried on the growing feelgood factor at the Harry Williams Riverside Stadium.

It followed Saturday’s routine 2-0 win over Winsford United, which booked Rammy a place in the quarter-final of the League Challenge Cup for the first time in six years.

Danny Warrender made his second debut for the club after a short spell with FC United of Manchester.

The right-back’s return gave Rammy a boost, with Mark Ayres heading home Grant Spencer’s pinpoint corner in the 16th minute.

Lee Gaskell doubled their advantage from the penalty spot on the stroke of half time and the Rams coasted after the break, setting up a quarter-final clash with First Division side Norton United at the Riverside Stadium on March 24.