Nelson regain top spot in league after 3-0 win over Ramsbottom United

After last week’s home defeat to Irlam, Nelson travelled to mid-table Ramsbottom United as they looked to regain their position at the top of the league, writes Harry Manning.

Making their debuts for Nelson were midfielder Ross Dent, recently signed from Clitheroe, and defender Corey Goodyear, on loan from Morecambe.

Jamie Edwards also returned to the starting line up along with Cameron Lancaster, back after being suspended.

Nelson kicked off and were soon on the attack with a Ross Dent shot from the edge of the box which was tipped over the bar by Rams’ keeper George Kenyon.

Minutes later Sefton Gonzales put Luke Hepple through on goal but he shot just wide of the post.

The Admirals were looking much the better side as Luke Hepple had another attempt on goal after cutting in from the left but again his shot was wide of the target.

Nelson continued to push forward and won a corner which was met by Sefton Gonzales but his header was easily saved by Kenyon.

The breakthrough for the Admirals came after 26 minutes when Darren Holden sent Luke Hepple on a run down the left who played a neat one-two with Jamie Edwards to beat Kenyon from close range.

Apart from a shot from Darren Holden, neither side created much in the way of goal scoring chances before the first half ended with Nelson one goal ahead.

Nelson started the second half unchanged and took control of the game. The Rams had a chance to equalise when Gareth Hill found himself in space on the edge of the box but he dragged his shot wide of the goal.

The Admirals doubled their lead after 58 minutes when a Sefton Gonzales pass reached Luke Hepple inside the box who side stepped his opponent to slot the ball home past Kenyon.

The Rams made several changes but were unable to find their way back into the game. Nelson went further ahead after 68 minutes when a cross from Corey Goodyear was headed on by Sefton Gonzales to Darren Holden who scored with a spectacular volley into the top corner of the net.

The home side pressed forward and almost pulled a goal back with an attempt from William Bould but his shot was over the bar.

The Rams’ best chance of the game fell to Isaac Lam who smashed the ball against the bar from 12 yards out but at the final whistle the game ended with a much deserved 3-0 victory for the Admirals.

The win sent Nelson back to the top of the league as previous leaders Droylsden could only manage a 1-1 draw with Irlam.