Darlington Mowden Park 34 - 12 Rossendale

Arguably the toughest test to date; away at one of the top sides of the league, who are also pushing promotion, Darlington Mowden Park. Dale's three week break had taken its toll - they looked rusty and out of touch.

Within minutes of the kick off, Darlington secured a cheap turnover from the away side and span it wide; their pacey winger receiving own chip to touch down for the home sides first try. Another quickly followed from some missed first up tackling from a quietened dale side. It was clearly Darlington's half with them notching up a third try after quashing the few rare Dale attacks with stern defence and good turnovers.

The second half began as the first ended. Dale immediately took the back foot again; good interplay between Darlington's back line resulted in three more unanswered tries. Only when the game broke down into more open and chaotic play did Dale capitalise. Jamie Albinson took full advantage of limited numbers of forwards fringing around the ruck to duck through, step the full back and score. Stephen Nutt converted and added another 5 points when a charged down kick found its way into his hands via Tommy Albinson. Final score 34-12.

Dales last 5 minute flurry portrayed some grit and determination when they knew they were under performing. Next week will require a remarkable improvement to get a result at home to a resilient Burnage side K.O 2:15PM