After two seasons Darlaston's Step 4 status remains in serious jeopardy following a 3- 0 defeat at Bootle FC.

A poor first half showing saw them go into the break with a 3 goal deficit. After a fairly lack lustre opening 15 minutes the home side took the lead on 18 minutes with Stephen Edmondson on target.

Within 7 minutes the game was as good as over Jay Roberts on 22 minutes and Ben Hodkinson on 25 minutes adding to the visitors lead.

The second half was a more evenly contested but the visitors did not have the goal threat to unduly worry the home side and were not able to get any foothold back in the game. Despite the visitors resilient and improved performance Bootle ran out comfortable winners.

The win keeps Bootle's play off hopes alive, but leaves Darlaston perilously close to relegation.