ROSSENDALE finally recorded their first win of 2002 as they overcame Guiseley with a superb second half display. An inspired substitution on the hour with Dave Gardiner replacing his brother Gareth, made all the difference with Dale going on to score four goals in the final 30 minutes.
The visitors had gone in at half time a goal up, Lee Reilly's glancing header from a left wing cross, being one of the few pieces of action in a very poor first half. The best effort Dale had produced was Chris Clarke's 25-yard free kick which was tipped over the bar by John Lamb.
Dale started the second half with more purpose and just seven minutes after the break Jerome Fitzgerald equalised with a well-taken goal from the edge of the box. On 66 minutes Fitzgerald had his second of the game and his 10th of the season. Craig Sargeson beat four men before crossing to the back post and Fitzgerald smashed the ball home.
Dave Gardiner should have made it 3-1 on 75 minutes. He found himself clean through after a great run from midfield, but screwed his shot well wide when he looked certain to score.
The third eventually arrived on 82 minutes. Jason Heffernan was brought down in the box and Sargeson coolly slotted home from the penalty spot. Dave Gardiner made it four with a tap in following good work from Darren Bowman on 88 minutes after Fitzgerald's record attempt at the lowest-ever header at the back post had failed.
And the best was saved until last as Gary Williams raced clear to round the keeper and thump home the fifth from a narrow angle with the last kick of the match.
ROSSENDALE UTD... 5 GUISELEY... 1
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