The final scoreline of 5 - 13 doesn’t sound like an exciting game of rugby but equally does not reflect the effort and commitment given by either side to this local derby.

To be fair to Rossendale they never ever at any stage of the game looked like losing. Rochdale scored a fine try early on but spent the rest of the game defending in their own half. Only ill discipline and poor handling saved Rochdale from a bigger score margin.

Jamie Albinson scored another brilliant individual try to level the score after some powerful forward play and moments later Roger Dennison crossed from a practice ground move that was well finished off by the ever improving full back.

5 – 10 at half time and a chance to re group and re think our game plan.
The second half came and went with only an Arno De Jagar penalty to show for it, however Rosssendale had all the ball and territory but could not break the Rochdale defence.

Danny Greenhaulgh had a great game in the set piece and loose while Arno De Jagar had a big game in mid field after several months on the side lines.

All things considered Rossendale were delighted with the win. For the last few weeks our players have had to show their adaptability, with forwards playing in the backs and big players missing through injury however, Rossendale entertain Penrith at home next week hopefully with a full strength team for the first time this season.

Team; Roger Dennison, Nathan Settle, Arno De Jagar, Danny Collins, Cameron Thompson, James Bramhall, Jamie Albinson, Paddy Pole, Matt Mackenzie, Andy Dauncey, Mark Ellinor, Tim Fourie, Danny Greenhaulgh, Paul Keys, Leyton Taylor, Subs, Ian Marshall, Grant Eddlestone, Will Dickinson