United made it three wins from three in this season's Manchester Senior Cup, virtually edging a five-goal thriller over Bolton at the Victoria Stadium.
The Reds recovered from the loss of an early goal and a subsequent stirring fightback from the Trotters, edging a five goal thriller thanks to strikes from Sean Evans, Chris Eagles and Craig Cathcart.
Blustery, perishing weather at Northwich made life uncomfortable for the assembled supporters, but both teams served up an entertaining cup tie to provide a welcome distraction from the inclement conditions.
The evening started badly for Brian McClair and Jim Ryan's side, as Portuguese striker Ricardo Vaz Te pounced on a defensive mix-up to slot the visitors ahead after seven minutes.
The Reds' charity was replicated by the Trotters' backline just five minutes later, however, as Sean Evans was given the simple task of sliding home from close range to restore parity following haphazard defending from the visitors.
Both defences settled into more miserly mood after showering gifts on the opposition in the opening exchanges, and it took a move of real quality to bring the next goal.
Eagles was the scorer, converting from close range after a fine passing build up from United on 33 minutes. Four minutes later, the winger was involved again as the Reds established a two-goal lead.
Displaying his set-piece prowess, Eagles fizzed in a fine free kick from the left wing, givingcentral defender Cathcart the simple task of glancing home a header for his first goal of the season.
Although United continued to look promising in attack either side of the interval, home nerves were set jangling when Daniel Braaten found space behind the Reds' defence to finish with aplomb.
The game continued at a frenetic pace, with chances for either side, but in the end United held firm to virtually seal a place in May's showpiece final.