Stockport scored 4 try’s in the first half and they didn’t have to break stride once as Dale made some unbelievable mistakes that cost us dearly, through poor handling, miss tackles and poor decision making Stockport had already bagged the bonus point.

With a huge wind advantage all Dale had to show for their effects from the first 40 minutes were 3 Bramhall penalties.

The second half was not much better but at least we showed a little more heart and enthusiasm with the ball in hand and we were beginning to make our tackles.

Stockport was playing simple direct rugby and scored another 2 try’s. The first came from a powerful scrum and then another silly Dale mistake.

Dale at this stage were trying to run the ball from every situation and Tom Albinson eventually broke down the Stockport defence and squeezed over for a consolation try.

Stockport had completely out played Dale and showed why they will probably go on and win the league, but there are always positives to come out of games. Danny Greenhaulgh had another fine game at prop and showed what a great signing he has been this year. Dave Wood is playing the best rugby of his Rossendale career with his powerful running and his great defensive work.

Team; Roger Dennison, Ali Harper, Tom Albinson, Dave Wood, Paul Wilcock, James Bramhall, Jamie Albinson, Paddy Pole, Andy Dauncey, Cameron Thompson, Tim Fourie, Johan Goosen, Danny Greenhaulgh, Paul Keys, Ian Marshall, Subs, Leyton Taylor, Paul Woodward, Nathan Settle