STEVE Cunningham has agreed to stay on as Atherton LR manager until the end of the season. The Crilly Park team boss tendered his resignation to the club board after Saturday's 5-1 home humiliation by next to bottom club in the North Western Trains League Division One, Bootle. Cunningham commented: "I was so disappointed after recent results, culminating in that defeat by Bootle, that I felt it was in the best interests of the club to have a change.

On Sunday the phone never stopped ringing, as players asked me to reconsider. I've decided to stay on through the current season. I think that shows the sort of spirit we have built up at the club, and it was very heartwarming that so many got in touch with me."

Club chairman Allan Grundy commented: "We are delighted that Steve has reconsidered. He has built a very promising young team for us here at the club and we are very pleased with what he has done."

RADCLIFFE Boro travel to Hucknall Town tomorrow night in the Unifilla First Division Cup third round. HOSPITAL CUP COMPETITION DRAW

Preliminary Round: Little Hulton v Bolton lads Club; Daisy Hill v Pennington; Bolton County v Hindsford; AFC Walkers v Rivington.

First Round: Eagley v AFC Walkers or Rivington; Blackrod Town v Bromley Cross; Atherton Colls v Little Hulton or Lads Club; Ramsbottom United v Atherton Town; Tempest United v Charnock Richard; Turton v Bolton County or Hindsford; Stoneclough v Daisy Hill or Pennington; Little Lever v Radcliffe Ams.

Final at Eagley on Friday, May 14,

If any teams can play their matches on Sundays, could the secretaries contact Keith Whittaker 01204 792201.

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