They then posted an 18th-place finish in 1955–56. Taking over Conway Smith's mantle as the club's key attacker, Longbottom finished as the club's top-scorer in 1956–57 with 15 goals, helping the club to a top ten finish.
In 1955–56, they secured an 18th-place position. Taking over Conway Smith's role as the club's key attacker, Longbottom topped the scoring charts with 15 goals in 1956–57, contributing to the team's top ten ranking.