BACK in September two points had been dropped against Amatuers in a 1-1 draw and this game was crucial as the Wythenshawe side were breathing down Pelican's necks in second place, although they have played two games more than the leaders.

Once again Pelican started sluggishly and Amateurs were quicker to the ball in the early stages, creating a number of chances.

Almost inevitably they took the lead on 23 minutes as a cross from the right was headed home by Graham Preston.

This setback was the kick up the backside that Pelican needed and they began to increase their work rate.

Midfielder Brian Baxter was particularly unlucky not to score as two great 30 yard efforts each rattled the woodwork.

However, within five minutes of going behind, Pelican were back on level terms as centre back Keith Hutton strode forward and played the ball over the Amateur's defence into the path of Leigh Weatherill and Pelican's leading scorer made it 1-1 with a great strike.

As the first half moved into time added on, Pelican got their noses in front as Nick Plant powered forward and despite a defender's attempted clearance smacking him in the face, Plant carried on as the ball ran for him, slotting it into the far corner, making it 2-1 at the break.

With only two minutes of the second half gone, Pelican made it 3-1.

Rick Mesquita sprang the Amateurs offside trap to run clear and although keeper Shaun McDonnell blocked his first effort, Mesquita kept his cool to gather the ball again and stab it home at the second attempt.

Pelican introduced three substitutes in the later stages and one of these, Mike Bennett, was put in the clear by a great flick from Leigh Weatherill.

However, as Bennett burst into the area he was brought down from behind and the referee pointed to the spot.

The ever dependable Paul Lowe calmly stroked home the spot kick and at 4-1 with five minutes to go, Pelican were home and dry.

On Saturday it's League Cup action as Pelican take on Knutsford FC (Park Road, Timperley, 1.45 pm)