ROSSENDALE United's wretched away form continued as they fell to another disappointing defeat against fellow strugglers Colwyn Bay.

Dale have yet to register a goal in 2004, a statistic which just about sums up the problems that have dogged them for the entire season.

Once again the Valley side played their part in an entertaining game, but the all too familiar tale of wasted chances saw them take nothing from a game which they could quite easily have won.

There were less than two minutes on the clock when Blake Norton fired high and wide from 15 yards, and that set the tone for the match.

Norton was the main threat for the visitors but his threatening crosses eluded the Dale forwards.

New signings Phil Lockett and Scott Bonsall looked impressive in midfield, and midfielder Bonsall was denied by a superb block from Mick Heathcote on 25 minutes.

Dave Gamble hit a shot high and wide following a goalmouth scramble and Norton brought a superb save from Ritchie Roberts - the Colwyn keeper tipping over his 30-yard drive just before half-time.

Dale continued to play the better football after the break, Brian Welch going close from the edge of the area and Ritchie Townsend was denied by a last ditch clearance after Roberts dropped an in swinging corner.

A rare Colwyn Bay attack brought the only goal of the game on the hour. James Skonka scuffed an Alun Evans cross beyond Mark Andrews into the far corner of the net to give the Welsh side an undeserved lead.

Dale piled forward looking for an equaliser but substitute Simon Burton wasted two golden opportunities, while Roberts almost carried a Lockett free kick over the line.

Dale knew it wasn't going to be their day deep into inury time when Lockett's pile-driver from 25 yards thumped a post and another three points slipped from the Valley side's grasp.

COLWYN BAY ...1

ROSSENDALE UNITED ...0