ONE of these two sides had something to play for on Saturday, the other didn't.

The performances of the two sides showed which was which as Dale collapsed to a solid, if not spectacular Belper side with their worst display for some time.

Dale weren't helped with the absence of Chris Fitzsimmons and Ged Smith due to work commitments, and the loss of Martin Diggle following a clash of heads which left the centre of defence exposed. The below par Chris Scott and makeshift centre back Dave Gamble were unable to cope with the Belper forward line.

Mark Ward had already hit a post for the visitors before Craig Smethurst put them ahead on 10 minutes, and Ward almost doubled the lead shortly after but his effort was well saved by John Gillies.

The second arrived shortly before half time, Liam Walsh heading home unchallenged from eight yards, and it was Walsh who added the third on the hour, his in-swinging corner fumbled over the line at his near post by the Rossendale keeper.

Ward made it four with 15 minutes remaining with a superb solo effort.

ROSSENDALE...0 BELPER TOWN...4