Cleator Moor Celtic experienced at first-hand the power of Bury AFC on Sunday.
The hot favourites for promotion from the North West Counties Division One North, they beat the Cumbrians 5-1.
Celtic manager Martin Mahone said: “They were a class above, good individuals and a good collective. I will be amazed if they are still in this league next season.
“They are certainly the best team we’ve played, even though we did draw with them at our place. They needed a last-minute equaliser to earn the point.
“We would have needed to be at our very best and with a full team but we weren’t able to do either.
“However I can’t fault our lads for effort and for sticking at it. We were 4-1 down at the break and it could have got out of hand but we dug in and did well in the second half.”
The pitch was covered in snow and it was difficult at times, and both teams were praised at the end for getting through it.
Bury had gone in front after only six minutes when Jonathan Hunt headed in a left-wing corner.
Immediately Celtic hit back with Jay Wetherill and Ryan Hall, back after a long absence, linking to send Josh Charlton through and he drilled home a well-taken equaliser.
Bury AFC were dominant for most of the half and added further goals through Adam McWilliam (16) and Tom Greaves (27, 38).
But Celtic were gritty and determined after the change-round and with keeper Craig Rule producing three outstanding saves, the defence got the lead from his efforts.
The hosts could manage only one more goal from Lewis Gilboy on 79 minutes.
It should be a bit easier on Saturday in one sense, but it is a virtual six-pointer as Ilkley Town are the visitors.
They are next to bottom, three points behind Celtic and with a game in hand.
