Visitors too big for Dale

Widnes won the toss and elected to kick off sending the ball deep into Rossendale’s 22 where Toby Mansley playing right, wing caught the ball and set off upfield before passing to Haig Haworth at centre. The Widnes defence closed in bringing Haig to ground, quickly re-cycling the ball to set up their own attack, using the brute force of two big centres they drew in the home sides defence to make room on the right to score an early try which was converted.

Widnes set up a similar move for their second score and although Dan Dunham and Ieuan Dwyfor-Jones put in some brave tackles the visitors were able to breakthrough again.

Rowan Hopkinson at full back had to be replaced early on after putting in a fearless tackle to thwart another attack from the visitors but he was injured in the process. Josh Beeken stepped in and covered the position competently showing great awareness in the use of his clearance kicks.

Rossendale competed well in all areas, Will Whinton made a number of determined runs frequently needing a group of players to halt his progress, similarly Tom Moore was difficult to stop and was unlucky not to make the final breakthrough to put his side on the scoreboard.

The forwards were equally impressive matching their opponents in the scrum despite being several stones lighter overall. Front rowers Reece Howarth and Nuri Stoner were also impressive, holding onto the ball obstinately refusing to cede possession. Elliot Newell seemed to compete at every ruck and maul, tirelessly covering the ground from one point of contact to the next.

Nathan Waddington at 9 and Bradley Watts at fly half linked well, developing a number of attacking options. Fin Wilby was dogged in defence and attack, similarly Jo Starkie and Noah Taylor supported in all areas of the field and like the rest of their team mates never let their heads drop despite a mounting score line against them.

A final mention for Ellis Williams playing his first game for Dale stepping in at hooker and displaying a cool head and aptitude for the game.

Final score was recorded as 30 - 0 for the visitors.