RAMSBOTTOM kick-started their promotion campaign with victory over Congleton Town in only their second game in 12 weeks, although they were again hit by the weather when Tuesday’s game at Atherton LR was postponed because of a waterlogged pitch.

The decisive moment against Congleton came after 55 minutes when a low cross from the left saw Joel Pilkington flattened as he tried to reach the ball.

Mark Drew slotted home to keep the Rams in with a chance of catching New Mills at the top.

With Congleton still harbouring hopes of winning the league, it was no surprise it was a tight game and that it needed a penalty to separate them.

The game ended in controversy when Rams joint player-manager Anthony Johnson was booked for diving when he thought the Rams should have been given a free kick for a foul. Johnson continued his argument with the referee after the final whistle and was shown a straight red card.