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 placed 18th. Taking over Conway Smith's role as the club's key attacker, Longbottom became the top scorer with 15 goals in 1956–57, contributing to the team's top ten ranking.