Quickly establishing himself as a tough-tackling attacking full back, McAteer didn't miss a game for the rest of the season, becoming a firm favourite with the Deepdale fans. The following season, he struggled with injury but still made 26 appearances as the club were relegated to Division Three.
McAteer rapidly became recognized for his robust tackling and offensive capabilities as a full back, participating in every game until the conclusion of the season and gaining popularity among Deepdale fans. In the subsequent year, despite facing injury challenges, he still managed 26 appearances before the team was demoted to Division Three.