Having shown some promise last week, Dale were brought crashing back to reality at home against mid-table Hull Ionians. This was their first visit to Marl Pits and they excelled in the misty condition thoroughly dominating all facets of the game. Dale were punished within the first 10 minutes, two penalties leading to two tries and from then on Dale were on the back foot. The visitor’s defence remained solid throughout the game and Dale were unable to trouble the score board, leaving the faithful supporters trying to recall the last time they scored no points.

The visitors had a bonus point by half time leading 22-nil. They did not let up in the second half and continued to take the game to Dale. Further tries came at regular intervals either from catch and drives from line outs or free flowing rugby from their own half. Dale’s defence failed to cope with the constant onslaught with the visitors running in a total of 9 tries for a comprehensive victory.

When Dale had the ball in hand, they were unable to breakdown the visitor’s steadfast defence with all their efforts petering out, with the final score 0-53.

There is a free weekend next Saturday before Dale travel over to Preston to take on Hoppers who are just above them in the league table. This should give Dale time to regroup and get their act together.

Report by Phil Johnson.