Blackburn U19 7 Rossendale U19 22
Despite the heavy rain prior to this match Rossendale found a firm pitch and brighter skies when they made the short journey to near rivals Blackburn.
They came away with the points and went top of the table in Colts league D.
They produce a strong resolute display and were never in danger despite a late surge by Blackburn in the second half, where Dale’s defence held firm. Rossendale’s opening score came from full back Will Sharratt who touched down mid way through the first half. He converted his own try and later added a penalty.
At 10-0 Rossendale were in the ascendency ,and when they moved the ball wide left winger Jake Entwistle beat his opposite man to the corner. Sharratt missed the conversion. The second half saw the visitors defend manfully ,showing tremendous character. Their reward, following a converted try by Blackburn, was a converted try from number 8 Paul Hughes which confirmed their dominance.
With confidence high the valley youngsters are buoyant at this result and their position in the league. Nevertheless there is still a lot of games to go and if any of the starting fifteen get complacent then any of the seven replacements on the sidelines during this match will eagerly take their place.