FC United beat Ramsbottom in Doodson Sports Cup

Michael Norton got a second half winner as FC United won 2-1 at Ramsbottom in the Doodson Sports Cup on Tuesday night, with Astley Mulholland opening the scoring early on.

FC United took the lead on 10 minutes when a superb ball from, the newly returned, Lewis Lacey into the box was controlled by Norton. He fired on goal but ex FC keeper Grant Shenton pulled off a great save only to see the ball drop to Mulholland, who fired into the net.

The home side were level just four minutes later when a corner was emphatically headed home by Billy Priestley. The Rams almost took the lead on 16 minutes when a free-kick was headed towards his own goal by Tom Davies, Jon Worsnop tipping the ball over well.

Just three minutes into the second half, Ramsbottom almost grabbed the lead when the dangerous Phil Dean crossed to the far post, Jordan Hulme heading just wide.

As the half wore on, FC took a hold of the possession and just before the hour, Tom Greaves did well to work his way into the box but found Shenton equal to his shot. On 65 minutes, the Reds did take the lead when a corner was flicked on to Norton who volleyed home.

Rambottom tried to find an equaliser but substitute Grant Spencer fired just wide. Norton almost scored his second just before the end of the game but saw his chip fly over the bar.

Overall, it was a good game with both sides contributing well but FC United probably deserved the victory, especially with their strong second half performance.

Report by Steven Wood

Website man of the match - Charlie Raglan. A calm assured performance at the back where he was confident with the ball at his feet and missed nothing in the air.